In life, we often come across people who believe they’re smarter than they actually are.

These individuals can be especially challenging, as they typically display subtle behaviors that reveal their misguided self-perception.

Indeed, spotting these behaviors can give us a better understanding of how they operate and how to interact with them effectively.

In this piece, we’re going to dive into the 9 subtle behaviors that these individuals usually exhibit. 

Let’s get started.

1) Overconfidence in their abilities

First on our list is a classic characteristic – overconfidence.

When someone believes they’re more intelligent than they actually are, they often show an inflated sense of self-confidence. Their belief in their own abilities and knowledge surpasses the reality of their competence.

Overconfidence can manifest in various ways. Perhaps they never admit to being wrong or are always the first to speak up, even when they don’t have all the necessary information.

Interestingly, this behavior is not always consciously manipulative. It can stem from a genuine belief in their own intelligence.

2) Use of complex language unnecessarily

Secondly, those who believe they’re more intelligent than they actually are, often use complex language when it’s not needed.

I remember a colleague of mine who loved to use big words and technical jargon, regardless of the context or audience. He seemed to believe that using complicated language made him appear more intelligent.

But, in reality, his unnecessary use of complex words often led to confusion and misunderstandings. It was clear he prioritized sounding smart over effective communication.

Effective communication is about clarity and understanding, not showcasing your vocabulary. 

3) Ignoring feedback

Another subtle behavior of those who think they are smarter than they actually are is their tendency to ignore feedback.

There’s a psychological phenomenon known as the Dunning-Kruger effect. This is when individuals with low ability at a task overestimate their ability. It’s related to the cognitive bias of illusory superiority and comes from the inability of people to recognize their lack of ability.

Part of this effect is the inability or unwillingness to accept feedback. These individuals often dismiss constructive criticism or advice, believing they already know better.

4) Constant need to be the center of attention

People who think they’re more intelligent than they actually are often have a constant need to be the center of attention.

They may frequently steer conversations towards themselves, or constantly try to command the spotlight. This could be in social gatherings, meetings, or even in online spaces.

This behavior can stem from the belief that their thoughts and ideas are more valuable or interesting than others’. It’s a way to assert their perceived intelligence and superiority.

However, true intelligence often comes with humility and the ability to listen and learn from others. 

5) They seldom ask questions

The fifth behavior on our list is a lack of inquisitiveness.

Those who believe they’re more intelligent than they actually are often ask fewer questions. This can be due to their belief that they already know all there is to know.

Asking questions, however, is a sign of intellectual curiosity and a desire to learn – key components of true intelligence. The smartest people understand that there’s always more to learn.

6) Lack of empathy

A subtle behavior that can often go unnoticed is a lack of empathy.

People who believe they are more intelligent than they actually are often struggle to connect with others on an emotional level. They might believe that their intellect sets them apart, or that emotional intelligence is not as important as cognitive intelligence.

However, empathy is a crucial part of our human experience. It allows us to understand and connect with others, fostering deeper relationships and connections.

It’s worth remembering that true intelligence encompasses both emotional and cognitive aspects. 

7) Difficulty in admitting mistakes

Another behavior often exhibited by those who think they’re more intelligent than they actually are is a difficulty in admitting mistakes.

I recall a time in my life when I found it tough to admit I’d made a mistake. I believed that acknowledging my errors would make me appear less intelligent or competent.

In reality, the ability to recognize and learn from our mistakes is a sign of true intelligence and maturity. It shows an understanding that nobody is perfect and that we all have room for growth.

If you notice someone struggling to admit their mistakes, it could indicate that they’re overestimating their own intelligence.

8) They often interrupt others

Eighth on our list is a behavior that can be quite annoying – frequent interruption.

People who believe they’re more intelligent than they actually are often have a habit of interrupting others. They may believe that what they have to say is more important or insightful, and thus, they don’t hesitate to cut others off.

Interrupting others not only shows a lack of respect, but it also suggests that the person may not value others’ thoughts and opinions as much as their own.

9) They don’t enjoy learning new things

The final behavior we’ll touch on is a lack of enthusiasm for learning new things.

People who think they’re more intelligent than they actually are often see learning as a chore or something they’ve moved past. They may believe they already know all they need to know.

However, true intelligence comes with an insatiable curiosity and a love for learning. The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong endeavor, and the smartest people are those who never stop learning.

Final thought: Intelligence is multifaceted

It’s important to remember that intelligence is not a one-dimensional trait.

The theory of multiple intelligences, proposed by psychologist Howard Gardner, suggests that intelligence encompasses a variety of domains. These include linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, spatial, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist intelligence.

Individuals who think they’re more intelligent than they actually are might excel in some areas but lack in others. They might be prodigious with words or numbers but struggle with empathy or self-awareness.

Recognizing these behaviors is not about judging or labeling others, but about gaining a deeper understanding of human behavior. It’s about realizing that each one of us has unique strengths and weaknesses.

So as you navigate through life and interact with different people, remember to keep an open mind. Understand that everyone is on their own journey of growth and self-improvement. And most importantly, remember that true intelligence encompasses much more than just cognitive ability. It involves emotional understanding, humility, and the perpetual pursuit of learning.