If you display these 9 traits, you’re smarter than you give yourself credit for

Ever wondered if your intelligence surpasses the grades on your report card?

Actually, intelligence is a complex tapestry woven with nuances beyond conventional measures. We all carry within us a spark of intelligence, but often we downplay it or fail to recognize it in ourselves.

So, how do you know if you’re actually smarter than you think you are? Is intelligence simply about acing exams and getting good grades? 

After delving into a wealth of psychological studies, personal experiences, and renowned theories of intelligence, I’ve compiled a list of 9 traits that might indicate you’re more intelligent than you give yourself credit for.

If these traits strike a chord with you, it’s time to embrace your true intellectual potential.

1) Curiosity is your second nature

Ever found yourself lost in a whirlwind of questions while everyone else seems content with the surface-level information? That’s a sign of a keen intellect.

Intelligence isn’t just about knowing answers, it’s about asking the right questions and having an insatiable curiosity to learn and grow.

If you’re the kind of person who dives deep into subjects, seeking to understand the why and how of things, you’re exhibiting a trait common among highly intelligent individuals.

The next time you find yourself spiraling down a rabbit hole of inquiries, remember, it’s not confusion – it’s your bright mind thirsting for knowledge.

2) You’re adaptable

Does change excite you more than it scares you?

Do you find yourself easily adapting to new situations and environments?

If the answer is ‘yes’ – then it means you’re highly intelligent. 

Being flexible and adaptable, particularly in problem-solving, is a hallmark of a quick and agile mind, according to research. If you’re the kind of person who thrives on challenges and likes to come up with different ways of doing the same thing, you’re likely smarter than you think.

Adaptable problem-solvers don’t just survive in this ever-changing world – they thrive. This type of person is not only capable of adjusting to new situations but also excels in navigating through uncertainty.

3) You’re a keen observer

Ever been called a ‘people watcher’ or found yourself noticing details that others miss? That’s a trait I can personally relate to.

I remember being at a friend’s birthday party a few years ago.

While everyone was busy chatting and laughing, I was intrigued by the way the hostess was moving around the room, subtly ensuring everyone was comfortable, refilling drinks before they were asked for, and switching conversation topics when someone started to look uncomfortable.

It was then that I realized – my ability to notice these small details wasn’t just me being quiet or introverted. It was a sign of my innate observational skills and heightened perception, traits often linked to high intelligence.

If you find yourself in similar situations, observing and picking up on things that others don’t, it’s not just your social skills at work – it’s your smart mind scanning and understanding the world around you.

4) You appreciate solitude

Does the idea of spending time alone appeal to you more than being in constant company? If so, this could be an indication of higher intelligence.

A study published in the British Journal of Psychology revealed that individuals with higher intelligence quotients (IQs) tend to derive less satisfaction than most people do from socializing with friends. They are more content and find value in solitude.

This isn’t to say they dislike people or social interaction, but they often prefer time alone for introspection and self-discovery. The fact that you enjoy spending time alone more than socializing means you own a trait shared by many intelligent individuals.

5) You’re at home in complexity

Do you find yourself drawn to complex ideas and challenging concepts rather than shying away from them? Let me share a personal example.

In college, while my peers would dread the thought of tackling advanced theoretical subjects, I found myself strangely excited about them.

The more intricate the topic, the more I was drawn to it. I would spend hours trying to unravel the complexities, making connections, and finding patterns.

It didn’t occur to me then, but this was a sign of my intellectual appetite for complexity – a trait often associated with high intelligence.

If you too relish the complexity of ideas, problems, and theories – rather than being intimidated by them – it’s likely a sign that you’re smarter than you give yourself credit for.

6) You have a good sense of humor

Ever been the one to crack a joke that makes the room burst into laughter? It’s scientifically proven that a good sense of humor is a tell-tale sign of high intelligence.

Studies have shown that people who appreciate and deliver humorous content tend to have higher verbal intelligence. If you think about it, crowdworking is no easy feat.  

Creating jokes involves major cognitive processes such as creativity, pattern recognition, and the ability to make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. 

That’s not all. Humor often requires an understanding of social nuances and context, which can be indicative of social intelligence.

If you’re often able to lighten the mood and make others laugh, you’re certainly a genius. 

7) You’re open-minded

While it’s not a direct measure of intelligence, open-mindedness can be linked to certain cognitive and social aspects that are associated with higher intelligence.

For example, intelligent individuals may be more inclined to explore new ideas, seek out diverse viewpoints, and engage in critical thinking. Open-mindedness allows individuals to adapt to new information and be flexible in their thinking.  

The willingness to consider different angles, question your own biases, and change your mind when presented with compelling evidence, is a sign of a highly intelligent mind.  

8) You’re self-critical

Do you often critique yourself and strive for self-improvement?

While it might seem like a sign of insecurity, it’s actually an indication of intellectual humility – a trait common amongst highly intelligent individuals.

Again, I’m not here to say that you should be extra hard on yourself.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that being self-critical reflects a capacity for introspection, self-awareness, and a willingness to improve your own thoughts and actions.

9) You’re a night owl

Do you find yourself more active and productive during the late-night hours?

Interestingly, research suggests that night owls are likely to have higher IQs. The ability to work efficiently during the night is linked with greater intellectual capacity.

If you are someone who prefers working or studying in the quiet solitude of the night, don’t let anyone stop you – it’s a sign of your intellectual strength.

Final thoughts: Unlock your potential