Ever wondered if you’re smarter than the average bear? We all have those moments where we question our intelligence.

Psychology, however, has some interesting insights that might just give you the answer.

There are certain signs that indicate you’re sharper than most, and they’re not necessarily what you’d expect.

In this piece, I’ll be highlighting 10 signs that suggest you’re a lot smarter than the average person, according to psychology.

Let’s get started. 

1) Curiosity

Ever been called a question box or a curiosity cat? Well, that may be a good sign.

Psychology suggests that a high degree of curiosity is an indicator of intelligence. After all, the desire to learn and understand new concepts is a clear sign of mental agility.

Albert Einstein himself once said, “I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.”

Curiosity drives you to explore beyond the ordinary, question the status quo, and delve into the depths of any subject. This natural inclination towards learning is often found in those who are smarter than average.

When someone calls you nosy or inquisitive, just smile. You’re simply showing one of the signs of being smarter than most!

2) You’re a night owl

This one really hits home for me. I’ve always been more of a night owl than an early bird.

Research suggests that individuals who prefer to stay up late and do their best thinking in the wee hours of the night tend to be more intelligent than average.

I remember back in college, I could never understand my peers who would rise at the crack of dawn to study or work. For me, it was always after sunset when my productivity would peak. I’d feel more focused, creative, and just generally sharper.

So if, like me, you’re often burning the midnight oil and find yourself most active when others are winding down, it’s not just a quirk – it’s a sign that you’re potentially smarter than the average person.

3) You’re adaptable

Intelligence isn’t just about acing tests and knowing facts. It’s also about how well you can adapt to new situations and solve problems.

According to psychology, people who are highly adaptable are often more intelligent than average. They’re able to take in new information, adjust their perspective, and find a way forward.

Consider the octopus, one of the smartest creatures in the animal kingdom. It’s not their memory or their ability to solve puzzles that sets them apart, but their incredible adaptability. They can change their behavior, appearance, and even their DNA based on their environment.

If you’re someone who thrives in changing environments and loves a good problem to solve, you may just be smarter than you think.

4) You doubt yourself

This one might seem counterintuitive. After all, we often associate intelligence with confidence. But in reality, some of the smartest people often doubt their own intelligence.

This is known as the Dunning-Kruger effect, a psychological phenomenon where individuals of low ability at a task overestimate their ability, while individuals of high ability underestimate their competence.

In other words, if you’re always second-guessing your intelligence or worrying that you’re not as smart as you should be, it might just be because you’re actually smarter than average.

You’re able to recognize what you don’t know, which is a sign of intelligence in itself.

Don’t let self-doubt fool you – it might just be a sign of your brilliance.

5) You’re a voracious reader

Are you the type who always has a book in hand or a reading list a mile long? Then you might be smarter than the average person.

Psychology suggests that there’s a strong link between reading and intelligence. Reading not only improves your knowledge and vocabulary but also enhances your cognitive abilities. It boosts your brain power, essentially!

Reading, particularly from a young age, stimulates the brain, encourages empathy, and helps in developing critical thinking skills.

If you’re always on the lookout for your next great read or simply love getting lost in a good book, it’s more than just a hobby—it’s a sign of your intelligence.

6) You value alone time

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than enjoying your own company. If you treasure your alone time, it may be a sign that you’re smarter than average.

Psychology suggests that intelligent people often prefer spending time alone. This doesn’t mean they’re antisocial or don’t enjoy the company of others. Instead, it reflects their ability to entertain themselves and their comfort in their own thoughts.

Time spent alone can be a powerful period of self-reflection and growth. It allows for introspection, creativity, and the opportunity to recharge.

7) You’re sensitive to others’ feelings

I’ve always had a knack for picking up on other people’s emotions. I can often tell when someone’s having a rough day, even if they’re doing their best to hide it.

This ability to sense and understand the feelings of others, known as emotional intelligence, is a significant indicator of intelligence. It’s about empathy, compassion, and the ability to navigate social situations with sensitivity.

Emotional intelligence enables us to build strong relationships, work well in teams, and effectively manage conflicts. It’s a vital skill in both personal and professional life.

8) You enjoy being challenged

Most people shy away from difficult tasks or complex problems. But if you’re the type who gets a thrill out of being challenged, it’s a sign that you’re smarter than average.

Psychology suggests that intelligent people often seek out challenges. They thrive on solving problems and aren’t afraid to tackle difficult tasks. They see challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities to learn and grow.

If your eyes light up at the thought of a tough puzzle or a complex task, it’s more than just determination—it’s a sign of your intelligence.

9) You have a good sense of humor

Got a knack for making people laugh? It turns out that a good sense of humor is not only charming but also indicative of high intelligence.

Psychology suggests that humor, specifically the ability to understand and create it, is linked to high cognitive ability. It requires quick thinking, wit, and the ability to see connections that others might miss.

Being funny isn’t just about telling jokes—it’s about insight, creativity, and timing.

10) You’re open-minded

Above all, one of the most telling signs of intelligence is open-mindedness.

People who are open to new ideas, willing to consider alternative perspectives and ready to question their own beliefs are often more intelligent than average. They understand that there’s always more to learn and that everyone they meet knows something they don’t.

Being open-minded isn’t just about being tolerant or diplomatic. It’s about recognizing the vastness of knowledge and the value of different viewpoints.

Final thoughts: It’s more than just IQ

When we talk about intelligence, it’s easy to get caught up in IQ scores and academic achievements. But the real essence of intelligence, as psychology suggests, encompasses far more.

It’s about curiosity, adaptability, and emotional sensitivity. It’s about cherishing solitude, valuing challenges, and being open-minded. And yes, it’s also about being a voracious reader, a night owl, and even having a good sense of humor.

Above all, it’s about understanding that there is always more to learn. As Albert Einstein once said, “The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know.”

So if you’ve been nodding along to these signs throughout this article, take a moment to appreciate your intelligence. And remember, it’s not just about knowing more—it’s about being open to more.