8 Common Signs of Highly Intelligent People

So what does it mean to be highly intelligent? It's not an easy question to answer, but the signs that you might be high-functioning are clear and well-documented. You’re likely a person who is a thinker and a doer, someone who has a positive impact on others and can solve problems with insight and creativity.?

In addition, if you find yourself continually asking questions about your life—for example, why are things happening the way they do?—then there’s probably something special about your brain!

IQ is a highly debated topic. Some people think that high IQs are a bad thing, while others think they’re the key to success. No matter what your opinion is on IQ testing, it can be hard to wrap your head around just how intelligent someone truly is.?

In this article, we'll look at some signs of highly intelligent people that indicate you might have an above-average intelligence quotient (IQ).

1# They’re highly adaptable

Highly intelligent people are highly adaptive. They can easily change their minds, and they’re not afraid to do so when necessary. This makes them great thinkers since it means that they have an open mind and aren't afraid to question things as much as possible.

They have a strong work ethic and can work well with others who share similar values or goals in life.?

If you're looking for someone who will help you achieve your goals, learn how to go with the flow and mold yourself according to your environment for the betterment of your life!?

2# They don’t get offended easily (or take things personally)

You might think that you're a pretty easy-going person, but if you've ever been offended by someone's behavior or attitude, then you know that it's not always easy to shrug off.?

But highly intelligent people don't let things get to them. They're not easily offended and they don't take things personally—even when other people do mean things to them! Instead, they are used to thinking rationally and with empathy.?

“The sign of an intelligent person is their ability to control their emotions by the application of reason.”

— Marya Mannes

3# They love learning new things

Highly intelligent people are open to new experiences and ideas as well. They are willing to try new things. They enjoy challenges and new people, so they keep learning throughout their lives!

They are also more likely to be able to change their minds when they encounter new information or experience as they have a learning attitude. They aren't afraid to try out new things because they know even if they can't succeed, they will learn something which will help them later.

4# They’re curious

Highly intelligent people have a high level of interest in the world and want to know why things work the way they do. They are also curious to know about the world and how it works!

The more intelligent you are, the more your curiosity will be driven by questions about how things work: Why do I feel pain when I stub my toe? Why does this door open from the wrong side? How can I make a computer behave like a human being?

If your mind is constantly asking questions such as these—and if those questions aren’t answered by others around you—it means that you’re highly intelligent!

5# They question everything

Highly intelligent people don't take things at face value and are used to questioning everything. They are not afraid to ask questions and seek clarification when necessary, even if it means speaking up against a popular opinion or idea they disagree with (or find offensive).

And the most important thing: they don't accept something just because it's in a book or it has been said by a popular person!

6# They’re quick to understand things

Less intelligent individuals often ask for clarification or repeat themselves when understanding something new (or even if it's been explained once).?

You may find yourself repeating yourself after getting your point across because the person is too dense—or maybe because they're trying to impress you with how smart they are!

In contrast, highly intelligent people are quick to understand things. They don't need to be told things repeatedly and over, as most people do.?

They quickly understand what is being said to them and can use their intelligence at the moment to make good decisions based on what they have learned so far.

7# They like their own company

Highly intelligent people are used to enjoying their own company. According to the study (published in the British Journal of Psychology in 2016) , highly intelligent people mostly like to be alone.?

They are comfortable with themselves and don't feel the need to be around people all the time. Moreover, they're not afraid of being alone, even if it means they have to work on projects or read a book instead of socializing with friends who are also busy with their own lives.

8# They don’t gossip

Highly intelligent people usually don’t like to gossip, or at least not about other people as they consider it a waste of time.?

“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

—Eleanor Roosevelt

They love to discuss ideas or explore new things in order to live a life worth living. In addition, they are likely to surround themselves with productive and friendly people to gain energy.?

Final Words

These are just some of the signs that you can look for in someone who is highly intelligent. If you’re looking for a friend/ coworker, or significant other who has these qualities, or even in yourself it’s worth checking out!?

By the way, have you found any of the characteristics/ traits that are mentioned above in yourself? If yes, what are they? Let me know, I would love to know your thoughts!