People who think they’re smarter than they actually are usually display these 9 subtle behaviors

It’s one thing to be smart, it’s another to just think you are.

Often, those who believe they’re smarter than they actually are can unintentionally display subtle behaviors that give them away.

It’s a fascinating phenomenon to observe and could help us understand how our perception can sometimes overshadow reality.

In this article, we’re going to delve into the 9 subtle behaviors usually displayed by people who think they’re smarter than they actually are. Keep reading, you might just learn something about yourself or others around you.

1) Overconfidence

If there’s one trait that’s often shared by people who think they’re smarter than they actually are, it’s overconfidence.

Let’s face it, confidence is attractive. It draws people in and can even make you appear smarter. But there’s a fine line between confidence and overconfidence.

People who overestimate their intelligence tend to be overly sure of their ideas and opinions, dismissing others’ input or perspective. They may not even realize they’re doing it, as they truly believe in their own intellect.

However, this overconfidence can be a double-edged sword. It might make them popular in the short term, but it can also alienate others and limit their own learning potential. After all, if you think you know everything already, why would you seek to learn more?

Because true intelligence lies not in thinking we know it all, but in recognizing how much there is still to learn.

2) Disregarding feedback

I remember a time when I worked with a colleague who constantly brushed off feedback.

Let’s call him John. John was rather intelligent, there was no denying that. But he had this habit of disregarding others’ feedback on his work, always believing that he knew best.

Feedback meetings were always a challenge. Any suggestions or constructive criticism were met with a dismissive wave of the hand or an excuse as to why he did things his way. It was frustrating for the team, but more than that, it was a clear sign of his belief that he was smarter than he actually was.

In the end, John’s inability to accept and learn from feedback hindered his growth in the company. He was smart, sure, but without the ability to listen and learn from others, it limited how much further he could go.

Dismissing feedback is a common behavior among those who think they’re smarter than they are. They believe they have all the answers and so, see no need to take others’ comments into account. But as I learned from my experience with John, this is not a path to true intellectual growth or success.

3) Using complex language unnecessarily

A study published in the journal Applied Cognitive Psychology found that people who use overly complex language are often perceived as less intelligent.

Interestingly, people who think they’re smarter than they actually are often fall into this trap. They tend to use big words and convoluted sentences, believing it makes them sound more intelligent.

But here’s the catch – true intelligence is about making complex things simple, not the other way around. Great thinkers have the ability to break down complex ideas into understandable and relatable concepts.

If you come across someone who’s always trying to impress with their vocabulary, they might just be trying to mask their insecurity about their intelligence. After all, a wise person speaks because they have something to say; a fool because they have to say something.

4) Lack of curiosity

Curiosity is the engine of achievement. It’s what drives us to learn, explore, and push boundaries.

But have you noticed that people who think they’re smarter than they actually are often lack this essential trait? They seem to think they know all there is to know, and therefore, show little interest in learning more.

They might not ask questions, or show interest in other people’s ideas or perspectives. This lack of curiosity can limit their knowledge and understanding, making it difficult for them to continue growing intellectually.

The smartest people in the room are usually the ones asking the most questions, not the ones answering them. Intelligence isn’t just about what you know, it’s about your desire to learn more.

5) Constant need to win arguments

We’ve all been there. You’re in a discussion or a debate, and there’s that one person who just can’t let it go. They’re not interested in understanding your point of view. They just want to prove that they’re right.

This incessant need to win arguments is a classic sign of someone who thinks they’re smarter than they actually are. They see every discussion as an opportunity to assert their intellectual dominance, even when it’s not necessary or beneficial.

But the truth is, being smart isn’t about always being right. It’s about being open-minded, willing to consider different perspectives, and able to admit when you’re wrong.

People who are truly intelligent understand this. They know that the goal of a discussion isn’t to win, but to learn and grow.

6) Lack of empathy

At its core, intelligence isn’t just about facts and figures. It’s also about understanding people, their emotions, and their experiences. This is where empathy comes in.

Sadly, people who think they’re smarter than they actually are often lack empathy. They’re so focused on asserting their intellectual superiority that they forget to connect on a human level.

I’ve seen this cause a lot of pain. Relationships strain, friendships falter, and workplaces become tense. All because someone is unable to step out of their own perspective and understand others’.

It’s a heartbreaking sight, and a stark reminder of the importance of emotional intelligence. Because intelligence isn’t just about what’s in your head, it’s also about what’s in your heart.

7) Inability to handle criticism

I remember a time when I received a piece of constructive criticism that hit me harder than I expected. I had always prided myself on being open to feedback, but this time it stung.

Looking back, I realize it was a moment when I fell into the trap of thinking I was smarter than I really was. I couldn’t handle the criticism because it challenged my perception of my own intelligence.

This inability to accept criticism is a common trait among people who overestimate their intellect. They view any critique as a direct attack on their intelligence, which can lead to defensiveness or even outright denial.

Accepting criticism graciously is an indication of true intelligence. It shows that you value growth over ego and are willing to learn from your mistakes. It’s a lesson that took me some time to learn, but one that has been invaluable.

8) Overcomplicating simple tasks

Ever met someone who takes a simple task and turns it into an overly complicated process? It’s a common trait among those who think they’re smarter than they actually are.

They believe that by adding complexity, they’re showcasing their intelligence. But in reality, it often leads to inefficiency and confusion.

True intelligence is about finding the simplest and most efficient way to accomplish a task. It’s about cutting through the noise and focusing on what truly matters.

So, if you find yourself or someone else overcomplicating things, take a step back. There’s often a simpler, and smarter, way to get things done.

9) Refusal to adapt

Adaptability is the cornerstone of intelligence. It’s the ability to change and grow with new information, situations, or environments.

However, people who think they’re smarter than they actually are often struggle with this. They’re so invested in their ideas and beliefs that they refuse to adapt, even when new information suggests they should.

This rigidity can hinder their growth and prevent them from reaching their full intellectual potential.

Remember, the true mark of intelligence is not just what you know, but your willingness to change what you know when confronted with new information or perspectives.

Final thoughts: The power of self-awareness

When it comes to intelligence, perception can be a powerful thing. But it’s important to remember that true intelligence isn’t about how much you know, but how aware you are of your own limitations.

The philosopher Socrates once said, “I know that I am intelligent, because I know that I know nothing.” This profound statement highlights the importance of humility in intelligence.

People who think they’re smarter than they actually are often miss this crucial point. They’re so focused on proving their intellect that they overlook their own areas for growth.

But the first step to growth is self-awareness. It’s recognizing these behaviors in ourselves and understanding what they say about our perception of our own intelligence.

So, as we conclude this exploration, let’s strive to be more self-aware. To acknowledge our strengths, but also recognize and work on our weaknesses. Because true intelligence is not about thinking we’re the smartest in the room, but realizing there’s always room for growth.