As humans, we’re wired to pay attention to a wide array of stimuli, but not all of them benefit us. Some can even drain our mental resources and hinder our progress.

Smart people, according to psychology, have mastered the art of selective attention, enabling them to focus on what truly matters while ignoring the rest.

This trait isn’t about snobbery or arrogance; it’s about being conscious of what you allow into your mind and how much energy you devote to it. It’s about knowing the value of your attention and using it wisely.

Let’s delve into those things that smart people tend to disregard to maintain their focus and productivity.

1) Idle gossip

Gossip might seem like harmless fun, but smart people know better than to get sucked into this time and energy-draining activity.

While it’s natural to be curious about other people’s lives, excessive gossip can lead to a negative mindset and wasted time. Furthermore, it rarely results in any substantial or beneficial outcomes.

“Gossip typically centers on the negative aspects of a person’s personal appearance, personal achievements, or personal behaviors,” according to psychologist Jack Schafer.

Smart people understand that the more they focus on others’ business, the less time they have for their own. They prioritize self-improvement and personal growth over unnecessary chatter about others’ lives.

They also know that engaging in gossip can damage relationships. It’s easy for a harmless conversation to turn into a breeding ground for mistrust and misunderstandings.

So next time you find yourself in a gossipy conversation, think like a smart person. Politely excuse yourself and invest that time in something more productive, meaningful or enjoyable.

2) Negative self-talk

We all have an inner voice, and sometimes, it can be quite critical. This internal dialogue can be a constant chatter of self-doubt and negative predictions.

However, smart people are aware that this kind of self-talk is not only unhelpful but can also be detrimental to their overall well-being and productivity.

Instead of dwelling on their flaws or mistakes, smart people focus on their strengths and achievements.

They treat failures as learning opportunities rather than signs of incompetence. They know that everyone makes mistakes, and it’s part of the growth process.

They also understand the power of positive thinking. Rather than saying “I can’t do this”, they tell themselves “I’ll find a way to make this work”. This shift in perspective can make a significant difference in their attitude and output.

Remember, the way we talk to ourselves shapes our reality. By controlling our self-talk, we can influence our emotions, behavior, and ultimately, our success.

3) Overplanning

While planning is essential for achieving goals, smart people understand that there’s a limit to its usefulness. They realize that life is unpredictable and that the best-laid plans can often go awry.

Rather than meticulously planning every detail of their day or their lives, they focus on setting flexible goals and developing resilience to adapt when things don’t go as expected.

They’re not afraid to improvise and make the most of unexpected situations.

They also know that overplanning can lead to analysis paralysis, where you’re so caught up in planning that you fail to take action. Smart people are not just planners; they’re doers.

So, instead of obsessing over perfect plans, focus on taking consistent action towards your goals and embrace the uncertainty that comes with life.

4) Social media perfection

In an era where social media is a constant presence, smart people understand that what’s presented online is often a carefully curated highlight reel, not a reflection of reality.

They realise that comparing their lives to the seemingly perfect ones showcased on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction.

They know that everyone has ups and downs, successes and failures, moments of joy and moments of pain – but not all of these are shared online.

Rather than getting caught up in the illusion of perfection, smart people focus on their own journey. They find satisfaction in their personal growth and achievements, without the need for external validation.

Remember, it’s okay not to have everything figured out. It’s okay not to be perfect. Life is a journey with twists and turns, and it’s our unique experiences that shape us into who we are.

5) Unkind judgments

We live in a world where judgments come easy and empathy can sometimes be hard to find. Yet, smart people understand the value of kindness over judgment.

They recognize that each person is fighting their own battles, many of which are unseen. They know that kindness can make a difference, no matter how small it may seem.

Rather than passing harsh judgments on others’ actions or decisions, they try to understand their perspectives. They empathize and offer support wherever they can.

They also extend this kindness to themselves, understanding that everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect.

In a world where you can be anything, be kind. It not only makes others feel good but also promotes your own happiness and well-being.

6) Multitasking myth

In our fast-paced world, multitasking is often celebrated as a skill. We’re encouraged to juggle multiple tasks at once in the name of productivity. However, smart people understand that multitasking is more of a myth than a reality.

“Research suggests that multitasking can actually hamper your productivity by reducing your comprehension, attention, and overall performance,” according to psychologist Kendra Cherry.

Smart people know that when they try to do several things simultaneously, their attention gets divided, and the quality of their work can suffer.

Instead of multitasking, they practice focused attention on one task at a time, ensuring that each task is completed thoroughly and effectively.

They also understand that constantly switching between tasks can lead to mental fatigue. By focusing on one task at a time, they’re able to conserve their mental energy and achieve better results.

So next time you find yourself trying to do a million things at once, remember the power of focused attention. It may seem counterproductive at first, but you’ll likely find you get more done – and do it better – when you concentrate on one thing at a time.

7) Fear of missing out

In a world full of exciting events and infinite experiences, it’s easy to fall prey to the Fear of Missing Out, or as we fondly know it, FOMO. However, smart people have a secret weapon against this – they embrace the Joy of Missing Out, or JOMO.

They understand that they can’t be everywhere and do everything. And more importantly, they’re perfectly okay with it. They cherish their own time and appreciate the moments of calm amidst the chaos.

Rather than fretting over missed parties or outings, they enjoy their own company, dive into their favorite books, or indulge in hobbies. They find joy in small, everyday moments and value quality experiences over quantity.

Next time your FOMO kicks in, remember the joy in missing out. It’s about cherishing your time and finding happiness in your own unique journey.

8) Excuses

In life, it’s easy to come up with excuses for why we can’t do things. “I’m too busy”, “I’m not good enough”, or “It’s too late for me” are common refrains. However, smart people understand that these are just barriers we put in our own way.

They know that making excuses holds them back from reaching their potential. It’s a self-defeating behavior that prevents personal growth and achievement.

Instead of making excuses, they take responsibility for their actions and choices. They know they’re in control of their lives and they’re not afraid to step out of their comfort zone and face challenges head-on.

So, it’s time to stop making excuses and start making progress. Take charge of your life, embrace the challenges, and remember that it’s never too late to start. You’re capable of more than you think.

9) Other people’s opinions

In our society, it’s easy to become preoccupied with what others think of us. However, smart people understand that this is a trap that can lead to self-doubt and hinder personal growth.

“Constantly wondering whether others like us enough can evoke anxiety, leading to neediness and insecurity, which in turn drive others away from us,” says psychologist Raj Raghunathan.

They know that they can’t please everyone and that it’s not their job to try. They live their lives according to their values and beliefs, not based on the approval of others.

They also understand that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but it doesn’t define their worth or success. They value constructive criticism but don’t let negative comments derail them from their path.

Remember, at the end of the day, it’s your life. Don’t let other people’s opinions dictate how you live it.

Stay true to yourself, follow your dreams, and remember that your self-worth is not dependent on anyone else’s approval.

Final thoughts

As we’ve explored these key traits, it’s important to remember that we all have room for growth. Even the smartest among us can fall into the trap of paying attention to things that don’t serve our best interests.

Psychologist Dr. Daniel Goleman once said, “Attention works much like a muscle — use it poorly and it can wither; work it well and it grows.” This quote reminds us of the power we have in directing our attention to things that truly matter and contribute to our personal and professional growth.

If you find yourself fixating on things that are highlighted in this article, don’t be too hard on yourself. Awareness is the first step towards change. Start by consciously shifting your focus from these distractions and towards your goals and aspirations.

Remember, nobody is perfect. We all have our unique journey of growth and learning.

What matters is not where you are right now but the progress you’re making. As you continue on your journey, keep these points in mind, and gradually, you’ll find yourself focusing more on what truly matters.

Take a moment to reflect on these points. Which ones resonate with you? Which ones do you want to work on?

Remember, change doesn’t happen overnight. But with consistent effort and attention, you’ll see progress. And that’s what being ‘smart’ truly means.