I’ve always been intrigued by intelligence. What makes one person smarter than another? Can we really measure it by conventional tests? Science suggests there’s more to it.

There are subtle signs, often overlooked, that can hint at someone’s high intellect. These aren’t your typical markers like being a chess champ or solving Rubik’s cube in record time.

This is about those little-known traits that science links to high intelligence. So, buckle up, because I’m about to share 8 signs that could mean someone is highly intelligent. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself in the list.

1) They’re night owls

Ever noticed that some of the most intelligent people you know tend to burn the midnight oil?

Science backs this observation. A study found a link between intelligence and being a night owl.

The researchers theorized that smarter individuals might be more likely to stay up late because of the “evolutionary novelty” of nocturnal activities. Our ancestors, after all, didn’t have artificial light to keep them awake after sundown.

This doesn’t mean that every late-nighter is a secret genius. But it’s an interesting correlation to consider. So if you’re reading this at 2 am, give yourself a pat on the back. You might just be smarter than you think.

2) They’re adaptable

Adaptability isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind when we think of intelligence. But according to science, this trait is a key sign of high intellect.

Research found that cognitive flexibility – the ability to switch between thinking about two different concepts, and to think about multiple concepts simultaneously – is a core component of intelligence.

And I’ve seen this in my own life. A friend of mine, who happens to be one of the most brilliant minds I know, is a master at this. One minute, she can be deep in a philosophical debate, and the next, she’s effortlessly shifting gears to solve a complex mathematical problem.

Her ability to adapt her thinking and approach situations from different angles is a testament to her intelligence. It’s not just about knowing a lot of stuff. It’s about how you use that knowledge in changing circumstances.

3) They have a good sense of humor

Having a good laugh isn’t just fun, it might also be a sign of a sharp mind. According to a study, individuals who enjoy dark humor scored higher on measures of intelligence.

This might sound surprising, but when you think about it, humor requires a level of abstract thinking and the ability to shift perspectives quickly. Dark humor, in particular, demands a certain amount of mental gymnastics to appreciate the irony or absurdity behind the laughter.

So if you’ve been known to crack a witty joke or appreciate a clever pun, you’re not just entertaining – you could be showcasing your intelligence!

4) They’re curious

Intelligence isn’t just about knowing a lot; it’s also about wanting to know more. Highly intelligent people are often deeply curious, and this trait drives them to explore new ideas, ask questions, and seek out new experiences.

This isn’t just anecdotal – it’s backed by science. A study found a strong link between high intelligence and high levels of curiosity.

So if you’re someone who loves learning about new topics, exploring unfamiliar places, or diving deep into complex problems, that curiosity might be a sign of your high intellect. It’s not just about finding answers – it’s about loving the questions too.

5) They’re empathetic

Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others – might not be traditionally associated with intelligence. But science begs to differ.

A study found a significant correlation between emotional intelligence and cognitive abilities. This means that those who are adept at recognizing and responding to the emotions of others often score higher on traditional intelligence tests.

This touches my heart because it shows that intelligence is more than just cold, hard facts. It’s about human connection, understanding, and compassion.

So if you’re someone who feels deeply for others, know that your empathy is a beautiful sign of your intelligence.

6) They appreciate solitude

Being comfortable in one’s own company isn’t just a sign of self-reliance; it could also indicate intelligence. Research shows that smarter individuals tend to derive less satisfaction than most people from socializing with friends.

Growing up, I was often content with my own company. While others sought the hustle and bustle of social gatherings, I found solace in quiet corners with a good book. Back then, I thought it made me different, maybe even odd. But this research makes me see it in a new light: as a reflection of my intelligence.

So, if you too cherish your alone time, remember – it’s not antisocial. It’s a sign of your high intellect!

7) They’re open-minded

Being open to new ideas and experiences is a key trait of intelligent individuals. This is because there’s a strong correlation between high intelligence and openness to experience.

Open-minded individuals are eager to learn from different perspectives and aren’t afraid to challenge their own beliefs. They’re receptive to new cultures, ideas, and experiences, which often lead to a richer understanding of the world.

So if you find yourself constantly seeking out new experiences or love playing devil’s advocate in debates, you might just be showcasing your intelligence.

After all, it takes a smart person to realize that they don’t know everything!

8) They’re self-critical

One of the most significant signs of high intelligence is the ability to critically evaluate oneself. Intelligent individuals often have a high level of self-awareness and are able to recognize their own strengths and weaknesses.

This trait isn’t just about humility; it’s actually a sign of intellectual honesty. Being able to acknowledge when you’re wrong, identify areas for improvement, and continually strive to better yourself is a hallmark of true intelligence.

So if you’re often critical of your own performance and always looking for ways to improve, take it as a positive sign. Your self-criticism might just be your intelligence shining through.