Intelligence isn’t always about acing exams or flaunting a high IQ. Sometimes, it’s showcased through peculiar habits that make people stand out.
Think about it. That friend who speaks to themselves or the colleague who enjoys solitude, they may seem odd, but they could be demonstrating signs of high intelligence.
In this article, I’m going to reveal 10 strange habits that could indicate a high level of intelligence.
Let’s get started.
1) Talking to themselves
Ever caught someone having a full-blown conversation with… well, themselves? It might seem odd to the onlooker, but this habit could be an indicator of high intelligence.
Psychologists suggest that talking to oneself can be a way of stimulating brain activity and sorting out complex thoughts. It’s like brainstorming with your best partner – yourself!
This habit of self-talk could be a strategy for problem-solving or even just an avenue for creative thinking.
2) Being a night owl
This one strikes a personal chord with me. I’ve always been a night owl, finding my most productive hours when the world is asleep and the quiet takes over. It’s usually seen as an odd habit, with early birds often getting the praise.
However, research has linked staying up late to higher intelligence. Studies suggest that those who burn the midnight oil may have a higher IQ and be more creative.
I can vouch for this, as my best ideas often come in the solitude of night. It’s as if the calmness allows my mind to think more clearly, connecting dots I wouldn’t normally connect in the hustle and bustle of daylight hours.
For all you night owls out there, embrace your late-night creativity. It could be a sign of your high intelligence!
3) Enjoying solitude
While many people love being in the company of others, some intelligent individuals find solace in solitude. They often prefer their own company and enjoy spending time alone.
It’s not because they’re antisocial or don’t enjoy being with others, but it’s more about indulging in self-reflection and introspection. It allows them to think, create, and solve problems without distractions.
Interestingly, a study published in the British Journal of Psychology found that more intelligent individuals experience lower life satisfaction with more frequent socialization with friends. This goes against the grain of what many might expect, but it’s another reminder that intelligence can manifest in surprising ways.
4) Being highly adaptable
Another peculiar habit of highly intelligent people is their ability to adapt to new situations and environments with ease. They are not afraid of change, in fact, they often thrive in it.
This adaptability extends to their thinking as well. They’re open to new ideas, can shift their perspectives, and are able to understand and apply new concepts quickly.
This flexible mindset allows them to navigate life’s challenges effectively and seize opportunities that others may miss. If you know someone who adjusts well to change, they might just be showcasing their high level of intelligence!
5) Constantly questioning things
Highly intelligent people tend to have an insatiable curiosity and a deep-seated need to understand the world around them. This often manifests in the habit of constantly questioning things.
They don’t just accept information at face value. Instead, they probe deeper, asking “why” and “how” to gain a more thorough understanding. They are not satisfied with surface-level knowledge and always aim to dig deeper.
This inquisitiveness not only expands their knowledge but also promotes critical thinking and fosters creativity.
6) Being empathetic
High intelligence isn’t just about logic and reason, it also extends to understanding and relating to the emotions of others. Intelligent people often have a high level of empathy.
They have the ability to put themselves in someone else’s shoes, to understand their perspectives and feelings. This emotional intelligence allows them to navigate social situations effectively and build strong relationships.
It’s a beautiful trait to have, really. It speaks volumes about a person’s capacity not only to understand, but also to connect with the world around them.
7) Enjoying a good challenge
I’ve always been drawn to puzzles and challenges, from crosswords to escape rooms. It wasn’t until later in life that I realized this inclination towards problem-solving could be a sign of high intelligence.
Intelligent people often seek out challenges. They thrive on problem-solving and love the mental stimulation it provides. Rather than being deterred by complexity, they are intrigued by it.
Whether it’s a complicated puzzle or a complex life situation, their brains are wired to dissect the problem, analyze the components, and find a solution. It’s not just about finding the answer, but enjoying the journey of getting there.
8) Procrastinating
Seems odd, right? We often associate procrastination with laziness or poor time management. But surprisingly, this strange habit could indicate a high level of intelligence.
Some intelligent people tend to procrastinate on tasks, not out of laziness, but because their minds are busy analyzing different ways to approach the task. They’re considering all the possibilities and scenarios, which can delay the beginning of the task.
A study from the University of Wisconsin suggests that this type of procrastination might be linked with a form of problem-solving called ‘incubation’, where ideas are developed while one is not actively thinking about the problem.
When you catch someone procrastinating, they might just be working out the best way to tackle the task at hand!
9) Reading for pleasure
Ever noticed that highly intelligent people often have an unending love for books? There’s a reason for that. Reading for pleasure is a habit that is strongly linked with high intelligence.
Not only does reading increase knowledge and improve vocabulary, it also enhances empathy, social perception, and emotional intelligence. It’s like a workout for the brain, flexing those cognitive muscles.
Reading allows intelligent people to explore different perspectives, ideas, and worlds, all while turning the pages of a book.
10) Being forgetful
This might seem surprising, but being forgetful can actually be a sign of intelligence. Intelligent people often have so much information and so many ideas swirling around in their brains that they sometimes forget trivial details.
Forgetting information actually helps your brain function more efficiently. It’s a way for the brain to prioritize and focus on important information while discarding less important details.
If you or someone you know is often misplacing their keys or forgetting appointments, it might not be a cause for concern. It could just be their brain making room for more important information!