8 signs you’re smarter than you give yourself credit for
There’s a vast difference between how we perceive ourselves and the reality of our capabilities.
Often, we tend to underestimate our intelligence, thinking that we’re not up to par with the brilliant minds around us.
But hey, I’m Lachlan Brown, founder of Hack Spirit and a firm believer in mindfulness and Buddhism. I’m here to tell you that you’re smarter than you think.
There are undeniable signs that indicate this very fact. And believe me, recognizing these signs can make a world of difference in your self-perception.
Here are 8 signs you’re smarter than you give yourself credit for, written in my usual straightforward and informal style. Prepare to surprise yourself.
1) You’re curious about everything
Ever found yourself diving into a rabbit hole of information, just because something piqued your interest?
Yes, that’s a sign of high intelligence. Smart people are naturally curious. They have an insatiable desire to explore new ideas and understand complex concepts. It’s not just acquiring knowledge; it’s the joy of learning itself.
This curiosity doesn’t stop at academic or professional subjects either. Everything from how a light bulb works to the culture of a far-off land can fascinate you.
And guess what? This trait is a big advantage in today’s fast-paced world where continuous learning is essential.
In the words of renowned psychologist Carl Rogers, “The very essence of the creative is its novelty, and hence we have no standard by which to judge it.” Don’t underestimate the power of your curiosity. It’s a clear sign that you’re smarter than you give yourself credit for.
2) You’re a problem-solver
There’s a common misconception that intelligence is synonymous with an extensive knowledge base. But, in my experience as a mindfulness enthusiast and founder of Hack Spirit, this isn’t always the case.
Intelligence is often less about what you know and more about how you apply that knowledge to overcome challenges. This is where problem-solving comes into play.
Problem solvers have an uncanny ability to look at situations from multiple angles. They aren’t deterred by obstacles; instead, they see them as puzzles to be solved.
Intelligence isn’t just your capacity to memorize information; it’s also your ability to navigate complex situations and come out on top.
3) You’re self-critical
This may seem counterintuitive, but being critical of yourself is actually a sign of intelligence.
Intelligent people are often aware of their flaws and are always striving to improve. They are not afraid to admit when they are wrong and are constantly looking for ways to learn from their mistakes.
This trait, known in psychology as metacognition, is the ability to think about your own thinking. It’s a sign of self-awareness, which is a major component of emotional intelligence.
Being self-critical isn’t being hard on yourself; it’s having an accurate self-perception and striving for growth and improvement.
4) You’re adaptable
The ability to adapt to new situations and changes is a clear sign of intelligence. Life is unpredictable and being able to adjust your thoughts and actions according to the situation is a valuable skill.
Intelligent people don’t resist change; instead, they embrace it and adjust their strategies accordingly. They’re not rigid in their thinking, but flexible and willing to shift their perspective when it’s necessary.
Being adaptable means you’re capable of learning from your experiences and applying those lessons to new situations. It shows you’re able to let go of what’s not working and try something different.
5) You’re an observer
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and miss the finer details.
But if you’re the kind of person who often finds themselves pausing to take in their surroundings, you might be smarter than you think.
Observation is a skill often underestimated, yet it’s a sign of intelligence. It’s more than just seeing; it’s understanding and making connections. It’s noticing patterns, changes, and details that others might overlook.
This trait is particularly common among practitioners of mindfulness and Buddhism – like myself. We encourage living in the moment, being present, and truly seeing the world around us.
6) You practice empathy
In a world filled with judgment and criticism, empathy can be a rare quality. However, those who naturally empathize with others, understanding and sharing their feelings, are smarter than they might realize.
Empathy goes beyond just feeling sorry for someone; it’s about truly understanding their perspective and emotions. This requires a good deal of emotional intelligence and a deep connection with your own feelings.
Both Buddhism and mindfulness emphasize on cultivating compassion and empathy towards others. It’s realizing the interconnectedness of all beings and acknowledging the shared human experience.
As Pema Chodron, a notable Buddhist nun, said: “Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals.”
7) You know what you don’t know
Socrates once said, “I know that I am intelligent because I know that I know nothing.” This statement, paradoxical as it might seem, holds profound wisdom. Recognizing the limits of one’s knowledge is a sign of wisdom and intellectual humility.
Intelligent people are always open to learning and growing. They understand that there’s always something new to discover and are not afraid to ask questions or seek help when they don’t know something.
So, if you’re someone who embraces the unknown and values continuous learning, pat yourself on the back. You’re exhibiting a sign of true intelligence.
8) You’re comfortable with solitude
Solitude is often mistaken for loneliness in our hyper-connected world. However, those who relish their alone time often demonstrate a sign of intelligence.
Mindfulness teaches us the value of being present, and solitude is one of the best ways to practice this. It’s about tuning into your senses, your thoughts, and your emotions without distraction.
Final thoughts: Embrace your intelligence
When it comes to intelligence, it’s not always about IQ tests or academic achievements. As we’ve explored, there are many signs of intelligence that often go unnoticed or undervalued.
From being curious and a problem-solver to being self-critical and comfortable with solitude, these traits all indicate a smart mind. If you’ve found yourself nodding along to most of these points, it’s high time you give yourself the credit you deserve.
If you’re interested in learning more about personal growth and achieving a balanced life, you might find my book ‘Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego‘ useful. It delves into the art of mindful living and embracing our unique selves.
In closing, let me remind you of the words of the famous psychologist Abraham Maslow: “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.” So, take a moment to appreciate your intelligence and continue striving for growth. You’re definitely smarter than you give yourself credit for!
Did you like my article? Like me on Facebook to see more articles like this in your feed.