If you’re like me, you probably spend countless hours looking for ways to sharpen your mind and improve your thinking skills.

And let’s be real, it can be pretty exhausting trying to keep up with all the “intelligence-boosting” tips out there.

Ever felt like you’re just not cut out for that Mensa membership?

Guess what? You’re not alone! And you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s delve into the 10 everyday habits that can actually make you smarter, backed by psychology.

No more guesswork, just proven methods to get those neurons firing!

1) Embracing the power of curiosity

You’ve probably noticed that the smartest people around you are often the most curious.

They’re always asking questions, digging deeper into topics, and yearning to understand how things work.

Sound familiar? If not, don’t worry – curiosity is a trait that can be nurtured.

The beauty of curiosity is that it drives us to learn new things and expand our knowledge base.

Research has shown that curiosity enhances our learning and memory capabilities, making us smarter.

However, in a world that’s constantly feeding us information, it’s easy to lose that sense of wonder.

But here’s the kicker – staying curious can be as simple as questioning everyday things or seeking out new experiences.

2) Making reading a daily ritual

Let me share a little secret with you. One of my personal habits that I strongly believe has contributed to my intelligence is reading.

Not just academic texts or highbrow literature, but everything – from newspapers and magazines, to sci-fi novels and even comic books.

I try to set aside at least 30 minutes each day to read something. And let me tell you, it’s been a game changer!

Psychology supports this too. Studies have shown that regular reading improves cognitive function, broadens vocabulary, and enhances comprehension skills.

But what I found most interesting? Reading stimulates multiple parts of the brain. So, not only are we absorbing information, but we’re also exercising our brains in the process.

Now, I’m not saying you have to start reading War and Peace right away. Just pick up something that interests you and make reading a part of your everyday routine.

Trust me, your brain will thank you for it.

3) Engaging in physical exercise

So, you’ve probably heard time and again about the numerous benefits of physical exercise. But did you know it’s also a fantastic way to boost your brainpower?

Turns out, when we engage in physical exercise, our heart rate increases, pumping more oxygen to our brain. This not only helps to improve our overall brain health but also enhances our cognitive abilities.

And here’s something you might not have known – regular exercise can actually increase the size of your hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning.

So whether it’s a brisk walk in the park, a sweaty session at the gym, or a calming yoga class – physical exercise could be your ticket to becoming smarter. 

4) Practicing mindfulness

Mindfulness, in essence, means being fully aware of our thoughts, emotions, and surroundings in the present moment.

And it’s not just about feeling zen or reducing stress – although those are great benefits too. 

Regular mindfulness practice has been found to enhance focus and attention, improve memory, and even promote creative thinking.

It’s like a workout for your brain, helping to strengthen those mental muscles.

So how do you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine? It could be as simple as taking five minutes to meditate each day, focusing on your breath, or simply paying full attention to the task at hand.

5) Embracing failure

Now, this might sound a bit counterintuitive. After all, nobody likes to fail, right? It’s uncomfortable, it’s embarrassing, and it can be downright disheartening.

But here’s the raw truth – failure is one of the most powerful tools for becoming smarter.

No one likes to admit it, but our biggest growth often comes from our biggest failures. It’s in those moments of setback that we analyze what went wrong, understand our mistakes and learn how to do better next time.

Psychology supports this too. Studies have shown that experiencing failure actually enhances our learning and improves our performance in the future.

So, the next time you make a mistake or face a setback, don’t beat yourself up. Embrace it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

6) Taking care of your mental health

In the quest to become smarter, it’s easy to overlook one crucial element – our mental health.

We live in a world that glorifies busyness and productivity, often at the expense of our own well-being. But the truth is, neglecting our mental health can have a significant impact on our cognitive abilities.

Anxiety, stress, and depression can cloud our thinking and make it harder for us to process information, solve problems, and think creatively.

 It’s okay to take breaks. It’s okay to prioritize your mental health over a never-ending to-do list.

Practices like therapy, meditation, journaling, or just talking to a trusted friend can go a long way in maintaining good mental health.

7) Limiting screen time

Our phones are the first things we reach for in the morning and the last thing we check at night.

And while technology has made our lives easier in countless ways, excessive screen time can have a negative impact on our cognitive abilities.

But don’t worry, I’m not suggesting you go completely off the grid. It’s about finding a balance and making conscious choices.

Maybe it’s setting a curfew for screen time, using apps that limit your social media usage, or designating certain times of the day as tech-free zones.

After all, it’s not about completely eliminating screen time – it’s about ensuring that our devices serve us, rather than the other way around.

8) Engaging in creative activities

Who said becoming smarter can’t be fun?

One of the best ways to give your brain a boost is to get creative.

Whether you’re painting a masterpiece, writing a poem, playing a musical instrument, or simply doodling on a scrap of paper, engaging in creative activities can do wonders for your brain.

Not only does it allow you to express yourself in unique ways, but it also stimulates different parts of your brain, improves problem-solving skills, and enhances your ability to think outside the box.

It’s not about creating perfect art; it’s about the process of creating.

9) Cutting down on sugar

Alright, time for some tough love.

Those sugary snacks you’re reaching for to get through the day? They’re not doing your brain any favors.

Here’s the deal – excessive sugar consumption can have a negative impact on your cognitive function. It can affect your memory, your ability to learn new things, and even your mental flexibility.

Trust me, I know it’s hard. Sugar is addictive and it’s in so many of the foods we love. But if you’re serious about becoming smarter, it’s time to take a hard look at your diet.

Try swapping out that afternoon candy bar for a piece of fruit. Or how about replacing that sugary cereal with a protein-packed breakfast?

Your brain – and your waistline – will thank you for it!

10) Getting enough sleep

Finally, let’s talk about something we all love but often neglect – a good night’s sleep.

If you’re skimping on sleep in the name of productivity, you’re doing your brain a disservice.

Sleep is not just about resting your body; it’s also crucial for your brain’s function.

During sleep, your brain consolidates memories, processes information, and restores its cognitive functions.

In fact, consistent lack of sleep has been linked to decreased cognitive abilities and lower IQ levels.

So turn off those screens, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and make sure you’re getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. It could be the key to unlocking your brain’s full potential!

Final thoughts

Becoming smarter is not about cramming facts, acing tests, or impressing others with big words. It’s about nurturing your mind, embracing new experiences, and constantly seeking growth.

It’s about the little habits we cultivate every day, from the books we read to the food we eat and the sleep we prioritize.

Remember, your brain is an incredible organ. It’s capable of so much more than you might realize. But like any other part of your body, it needs care, attention, and the right kind of fuel.

And most importantly, remember that the journey to becoming smarter is not a race—it’s a lifelong process of growth and discovery.

Embrace it with curiosity and patience, and you’ll be amazed at how far you can go.