Hello there! I’m Isabel Chase—a self-confessed introvert nestled in the middle of New York’s constant buzz.

While the city never sleeps, I often find myself daydreaming more than socializing.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that my “quiet quirks” can actually be signs of a sharp mind.

Based on my personal experiences and a few psychology insights, here are seven signs you might have a high IQ, even if you sometimes feel totally ordinary.

1. You’re Driven by Curiosity

If you’re anything like me, you can’t help but go down internet rabbit holes whenever an intriguing question pops into your head.

A quick search about “How do spiders build their webs?” can turn into hours of reading about various arachnid species, their habitats, and even the evolutionary history of web-making.

Psychologists say that people with higher IQs often have a deep-seated curiosity that pushes them to explore topics in detail.

Even in my bustling city life, I find moments to indulge my curiosity—like reading random articles on the subway or listening to podcasts while walking through crowded streets. If this sounds familiar, you might be smarter than you think.

2. You Notice the Small Stuff

Living in New York has taught me how important it is to notice subtle cues—like which coffee shop is least crowded or which subway car tends to be emptier during rush hour.

But observant people go beyond that; they pick up on small facial expressions, slight changes in someone’s tone, or tiny inconsistencies in a story.

Psychologists often link strong observational skills to problem-solving and analytical thinking—hallmarks of a higher IQ. If you’re constantly aware of your surroundings, spotting details other people miss, give yourself some credit. You probably have a sharp mind that’s always piecing together the puzzle of everyday life.

3. You Find Humor in Odd Places

Have you ever laughed at something nobody else found funny? Or maybe you made a clever joke that went over everyone else’s head?

Trust me, I’ve been there—cracking up at my own puns while my friends just roll their eyes.

Studies in psychology suggest that a well-developed sense of humor, especially one that leans on creativity or wordplay, can be a sign of a high IQ.

Humor often requires you to connect different ideas quickly, and if you’re doing that with ease, you’re likely using some high-level thinking skills. So, if you’ve ever been the only one chuckling, it might be that your brain’s just firing on all cylinders.

4. You Treasure Quiet Moments

As an introvert in a city of eight million people, I deeply value any chance I get to unplug.

Whether it’s curling up with a book in my apartment or slipping into a local library, those quiet moments feel like a recharge session for my overactive mind.

Introversion itself doesn’t guarantee a high IQ, but there is a notable connection.

Many introverted people spend lots of time reflecting, analyzing, and observing.

This internal world can fuel deep thought and creativity, two traits often associated with elevated intelligence.

If you find strength and clarity in solitude, you might be nurturing a powerful inner life that reflects a high IQ.

5. You Daydream Like It’s Your Job

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been called out for “zoning out.” But here’s the thing: daydreaming can be a key sign of a busy, imaginative mind.

When I drift off, I’m not just staring into space—I’m mentally juggling ideas, brainstorming creative projects, or replaying past conversations to see what I could have said differently.

Psychologists link daydreaming to cognitive flexibility and enhanced problem-solving, which are strongly tied to intelligence.

So, the next time someone catches you gazing out the window and says, “Earth to [Your Name]!”, just remember that your wandering mind is hard at work behind the scenes.

6. You Adapt at Lightning Speed

Ever found yourself in a bind—like your plans suddenly changing last minute—and realized you had a new solution before you even felt panicked?

That quick adaptation might be another subtle hint at a high IQ. In a place like New York, being flexible is practically a survival skill—subway delays and unexpected weather are part of daily life.

Still, not everyone handles change well. If you’re the person who can effortlessly switch gears or come up with a backup plan on the fly, it means you’re tapping into strong problem-solving skills.

This kind of mental agility is often seen in high-IQ individuals.

7. You Ask “Why?” All the Time

My friends and family know me as the one who always needs the backstory. It’s never enough for me to just get an answer—I want to know why it works that way. If this sounds like you, you’re in good company.

People with higher IQs are known for their natural inquisitiveness; they’re driven to question rules, patterns, and explanations. This might mean you were the kid who took your toys apart to see how they worked (or the adult who still does this with gadgets!).

This endless curiosity is a sign you’re constantly learning, making you mentally agile and often a step ahead in understanding the big picture.

Wrapping It All Up

If you relate to these habits—constant curiosity, noticing small details, cracking unappreciated jokes, enjoying solitude, daydreaming, being adaptable, and persistently asking “why?”—you may have a higher IQ than you give yourself credit for. The best part is, intelligence isn’t just about numbers on a test; it’s about how you interact with the world, adapt to challenges, and stay open to new ideas.

So, whether you’re an introvert in a big city like me or someone simply navigating daily life, remember that your unique traits could be a clue to what’s going on beneath the surface. Stay curious, keep questioning, and never be afraid to let your mind wander. You might be far more clever than you realize!