Who doesn’t want to think they’re above average, but how do you know if you really are?
Well, psychology may have some answers.
There are certain signs that you may be smarter than the average person, and no, it’s not about having a high IQ or being a human calculator.
It’s about certain traits and behaviors that give you an advantage, so let’s explore what these signs are.
1) Are you a curious cat?
They say curiosity killed the cat, but in this case it might just make you smarter.
Psychology suggests that highly intelligent people tend to have a strong sense of curiosity. They are always asking questions, always wanting to know more.
It’s not about being nosy or intrusive, it’s about a deep desire to understand the world around you. It’s about not being satisfied with the surface level and digging deeper.
Curiosity drives you to learn new things, explore different ideas, and challenge your own beliefs. It drives you to grow and improve, both in knowledge and understanding.
If you are constantly interested in the world around you, it may just be a sign that you are smarter than the average person.
2) Are you a night owl?
This one hit me personally. I’ve always been more of a night owl than an early bird.While everyone else is stuck in bed, I consider myself the most productive and creative.
It turns out, according to psychology, this can be a sign of higher intelligence.Studies show that people who stay up late and do their best work late tend to score higher on intelligence tests.
My mind seems to come alive when the world is quiet.There is something about the peace and quiet of the night that frees my thoughts and helps me focus better.
I’ve written some of my best articles, solved difficult problems, and even made important life decisions in the quiet solitude of a night.
If you’re like me, finding your stride when others stop, it might not just be insomnia or a messed up body clock, it might be a sign of your above average intelligence.
3) You embrace ambiguity
Does uncertainty make you uncomfortable, or do you enjoy the thrill of the unknown?Your answer may indicate your level of intelligence.
Psychological research shows that highly intelligent people are more comfortable with ambiguity.They do not require absolute certainty or clear answers to every situation.
Furthermore, intelligent individuals are more likely to see ambiguity as an opportunity for new ideas and creative solutions rather than a daunting challenge.
Historically, it was thinkers who could overcome ambiguity that made significant discoveries and breakthroughs.For example, Einstein’s theory of relativity challenged the established norms of physics and presented an entirely new perspective on how the universe works.
4) You adapt quickly to change
Life is full of surprises. Plans change, unexpected events occur, and new challenges arise, and how you handle these changes can be a good indicator of your intelligence.
Psychology suggests that people with higher intelligence are better at adapting to change. They can quickly analyze new situations, understand the consequences, and adjust their behavior or plans accordingly.
Being adaptable doesn’t mean you’re always comfortable with change. It can still be stressful and difficult. But it does mean you can respond effectively rather than be paralyzed by the unexpected.
If you’re the kind of person who can roll when life throws you a curve ball, take that as a sign of your above-average intelligence.
5) Are you self-critical?
It may seem counterintuitive, but being critical of your own abilities and performance can be a sign of intelligence.
Highly intelligent people are not complacent. They are always looking for ways to improve and grow, which means they are often their own harshest critics.
Being self-critical doesn’t mean dwelling on your failures or constantly putting yourself down. Instead, it’s about recognizing your weaknesses and working to turn them into strengths.
6) You value deep conversations
Small talk can be fun. It keeps things light, fills the silence, and can even be fun. But if you want deep, meaningful conversations, it can be a sign of your intelligence.
Highly intelligent people tend to discuss big ideas and complex issues rather than indulging in idle conversation.They find satisfaction in exploring different points of view, challenging their own beliefs, and gaining a deeper understanding of the world and the people around them.
There is a certain richness and warmth that comes from conversation that goes beyond the surface level. It connects us on a deeper level, makes us see, hear and understand.
7) Do you think often?
It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but if you often find yourself in the world of your own thoughts, it can be a sign of your intelligence.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve missed my stop because I’ve been lost in my thoughts, or how often I’ve found myself outside the window lost in thought while a pile of work awaits me.
Smart people tend to have active minds. They are always thinking, always processing, always questioning. It’s as if their mind is on a constant treadmill, running at a speed that most people can’t keep up with.
8) Do you enjoy your own company?
Being social is usually seen as a positive trait, but if you’re someone who cherishes solitude, it can be a sign of your intelligence.
Studies show that highly intelligent people often prefer to spend time alone rather than socializing. They enjoy their company and find solitude refreshing and rejuvenating.
Enjoying solitude doesn’t mean you’re antisocial or introverted, it just means you appreciate quiet moments that allow for self-reflection and inner growth.
When someone labels you “single,” take it as a compliment. It might just mean you’re smarter than they realize.
9) You have a wide range of interests
Have you ever been accused of being a “jack of all trades, master of none?” Well, that might just be a sign of your intelligence.
Smart people tend to have a variety of interests and passions. They are not limited to one specific field or subject. Instead, they like to learn about a variety of things, from art to zoology and everything in between.
Having diverse interests broadens your knowledge base and opens your mind to different perspectives. It fosters creativity and innovation and helps you make connections that others might miss.
If you are a person with diverse interests, don’t let anyone make you feel like it’s a weakness. It’s actually a strength and a sign of your intelligence.
10) Are you open-minded?
Open-mindedness is perhaps one of the most important indicators of intelligence.
Smart people understand that they don’t know everything. They are open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives.They are willing to challenge their own beliefs and are not afraid to change their minds when presented with compelling evidence.
Being open-minded doesn’t mean blindly accepting everything you hear or read. It means being receptive and thoughtful, carefully considering different points of view before forming your own opinion.
Referring to intelligence
Intelligence is more than just numbers on an IQ test. It’s a varied and complex trait that is influenced by many factors, including our genetics, upbringing, experiences, and even our personal preferences.
These signs we have discussed are not definitive proof of high intelligence. They are just indications that you may be above average. But remember that everyone is unique and intelligence can manifest itself in different ways.
So whether you relate to all of these signs, or even none of them, it doesn’t diminish your worth or potential.
Ultimately, it’s not how smart you are compared to others, but how you use your intelligence to make a positive impact in the world.
So take a moment to think about these signs. And whatever your intelligence level is, keep pushing it. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep striving to be the best version of you.