8 often overlooked signs of high intelligence

When someone solves a complex equation, we label them as intelligent. When someone uses big words and long sentences, we perceive them as smart.

But, it’s not always that black and white. Intelligence goes beyond just academic prowess or a rich vocabulary. It’s often subtle, embedded in underrated habits and behaviors.

Now, some folks can spot these signs more readily than others. This knack usually comes with an insightful understanding of human nature and a keen eye for detail.

In this article, we’re uncovering 8 overlooked signs that scream ‘High Intelligence’.

Signs that are hiding in plain sight, waiting for you to discern and appreciate. Ready? Let’s dive in.

1) Curiosity

Curiosity, as they say, killed the cat. But in the realm of intelligence, it’s quite the opposite.

Highly intelligent people are typically deeply curious. They have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and are always on a quest to learn more.

But it goes beyond just learning facts and figures.

They’re not interested in shallow memorization, but rather, they’re passionate about understanding the world around them in a deeper and more meaningful way.

This curiosity often leads them to explore unfamiliar territories, push boundaries, and question the status quo.

It fuels their drive and feeds their mind.

If you find yourself constantly asking “why?” or “how?”, you might just be exhibiting an overlooked sign of high intelligence.

Curiosity, it turns out, doesn’t kill the cat. It makes the cat smarter.

2) Adaptability

Intelligence isn’t about knowing all the answers, it’s about how you adapt when you don’t know the answer.

I remember when I first started my own business. I had a vision and a plan, but as with any entrepreneurial journey, challenges and obstacles were inevitable.

There was this one time when a critical supplier pulled out at the last minute, leaving me in a tight spot.

Instead of panicking or giving up, I got creative. I quickly found an alternate supplier, renegotiated terms and adapted my business model to accommodate the unexpected change.

This adaptability, this ability to think on your feet and pivot swiftly when circumstances demand, is a powerful sign of high intelligence. It’s not just about book-smarts, it’s about life-smarts.

It’s about being resilient in the face of uncertainty.

If you’re someone who can turn lemons into lemonade just like I did, congratulations! You’re showcasing a sign of high intelligence often overlooked by many.

3) Being a night owl

It’s midnight, everyone’s asleep, but you’re still up, exploring new ideas or working on that project. Sound familiar?

Those who prefer to stay up late and do their best work in the wee hours are more likely to have higher intelligence levels.

This nocturnal tendency, known as “Eveningness”, is linked to a greater capacity for innovative thinking and creativity.

If you find yourself burning the midnight oil more often than not, it might not just be insomnia.

It could be a sign of high intelligence subtly manifesting itself.

Who knew that being an owl could be synonymous with being a genius?

4) Enjoying solitude

It’s a common misconception that intelligent people are always surrounded by books or engaged in intellectual discussions. But in reality, many highly intelligent people often prefer solitude.

They relish the quiet, the peace, and the opportunity to think deeply without interruption.

These moments of solitude allow them to reflect, contemplate, and generate innovative ideas.

If you’re someone who enjoys your own company and finds comfort in being alone with your thoughts, don’t mistake it for being anti-social.

Instead, it could be an indication of your high intelligence silently making its presence felt.

After all, as Albert Einstein once said, “The monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind.”

5) Embracing change

Life is a constant cycle of changes. As for me, I’ve always found change to be exciting rather than intimidating.

Intelligent people often share this perspective.

They see change not as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth and learning. They’re flexible, adaptable, and always ready to embrace new experiences.

I recall when my company introduced a new software system.

Instead of resisting it, I jumped at the chance to learn something new. I spent hours figuring out its functionalities and soon became proficient in using it.

If you’re like me and see change as an exciting challenge rather than a daunting obstacle, you might just be displaying another overlooked sign of high intelligence.

Embracing change is all about having an open mind – a common trait among the highly intelligent.

6) Being forgetful

Forgetting where you put your keys or the name of that acquaintance you met at a party might not seem like a sign of intelligence.

In fact, most people would assume the opposite.

But here’s the twist: research suggests that forgetting minor details can actually be a sign of high intelligence.

The idea is that our brains are designed to filter out irrelevant information, allowing us to focus on what’s important.

If you’re often forgetful of trivial things, don’t fret. It just means your brain is busy processing more significant matters, a subtle display of its high intelligence at work.

In essence, a little forgetfulness isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes, it’s just your brain being efficiently selective.

7) Appreciating humor

Everyone loves a good laugh, but did you know that your sense of humor can indicate your intelligence level?

Highly intelligent people often have a keen sense of humor. They’re more likely to appreciate wit, satire, and subtle nuances in comedy.

They can see the humor in complex situations and even use it as a coping mechanism during challenging times.

If you’re the one who always gets the punchline or enjoys a good, smart comedy, it could be a sign of your high intelligence.

Who would’ve thought that laughter could be so insightful?

8) Self-awareness

Last but certainly not least, self-awareness is a clear sign of high intelligence.

Highly intelligent people are acutely aware of their strengths and weaknesses.

They know what they’re good at, they recognize where they need improvement, and they’re able to objectively assess their actions and behavior.

This self-awareness allows them to make better decisions, learn from their mistakes, and continuously strive for personal growth.

If you’re someone who has a clear understanding of who you are, you’re not only emotionally intelligent but likely highly intelligent as well.

Remember, self-awareness isn’t just about introspection – it’s about understanding your place in the world around you.

Embracing your intelligence

If you’ve journeyed with me up to this point, you might have realized that high intelligence isn’t limited to academic achievements or IQ scores.

It’s interwoven into our habits, behaviors, and even our quirks.

Being intelligent isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking the right questions, embracing change, appreciating humor, and being self-aware.

It’s about learning, adapting and growing.

If you see yourself in these signs, embrace it. And if you don’t, remember that intelligence comes in many forms and these are just some of the overlooked signs.

As Albert Einstein famously said, “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

Here’s to seeing beyond the obvious, to recognizing the subtle signs of intelligence within ourselves and others.

And most importantly, to understanding that our intelligence – in all its forms – is a gift to be cherished.