The word “intelligence” tends to conjure images of IQ tests and academics behind a pile of books, but it’s so much more than that.
Not only are there many different types of intelligence, but your cleverness manifests in loads of different ways. Just because you’re not clever in one area doesn’t mean you can’t be exceedingly smart in another — and that’s just for starters. Here are some other strange facts about your intelligence you might not know.
1. Your intelligence can change over time.
Contrary to popular belief, intelligence isn’t fixed. Throughout your life, your brain is capable of growing, adapting, and improving. Factors like learning new skills, challenging yourself, and even your lifestyle choices can boost your brainpower. So, if you feel a bit foggy now, don’t panic — a few mental challenges could have you feeling sharper in no time.
2. Being forgetful can actually be a sign of intelligence.
If you’re someone who often forgets where you left your keys or struggles to remember names, don’t fret. Research suggests that forgetfulness can be linked to a brain that prioritises important information over trivial details. In other words, your mind might be too busy filtering what matters to sweat the small stuff. Forgetting the little things doesn’t mean you’re not smart — it might mean your brain is focused on the big picture.
3. You might be smarter at certain times of the day.
Are you a morning person, or do you thrive in the quiet hours of the night? Your brain has its own rhythm, and when you’re at your sharpest can vary. Some people perform better mentally in the early hours, while others reach their intellectual peak later in the evening. Knowing your brain’s preferred schedule can help you plan your trickiest tasks for when you’re naturally firing on all cylinders.
4. People with high intelligence often enjoy dark humour.
If you laugh at jokes that make some people raise an eyebrow, you might be smarter than you think. Studies have shown that those who appreciate dark humour tend to score higher on intelligence tests. Processing dark or complex jokes requires mental agility and an ability to understand nuance — not to mention a good sense of humour!
5. Talking to yourself might mean you’re clever.
Ever caught yourself chatting away while alone and felt a bit silly? Don’t worry — talking to yourself is actually a sign of high cognitive function. It helps clarify your thoughts, organise your actions, and even boost your memory. So next time you have a little monologue, embrace it — it might be your brain’s way of fine-tuning your thinking process.
6. Your brain uses more energy than you realise.
Your brain makes up only about 2% of your body weight, but it uses around 20% of your energy. All that thinking, problem-solving, and daydreaming burns a surprising number of calories. That’s why mental exhaustion can sometimes feel just as draining as physical exertion. It’s no wonder you crave a snack after a long day of thinking!
7. Reading fiction can make you smarter.
Diving into a good novel does more than entertain you. Reading fiction has been linked to improved empathy, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. When you follow a character’s journey, you’re exercising your brain’s ability to understand different perspectives and solve complex problems. So, your love for novels isn’t just a hobby — it’s a mental workout.
8. Daydreaming might be a sign of a sharper mind.
If your mind tends to wander, you might actually have a highly efficient brain. Research suggests that daydreaming is linked to higher intelligence and greater creativity. While it might seem like you’re not focused, your brain is often making unexpected connections and processing information in the background. So don’t feel guilty about zoning out — you’re probably just giving your brain some creative space.
9. Being anxious can correlate with high intelligence.
Though anxiety isn’t fun, studies have found a connection between high intelligence and a tendency to worry. Those with more active minds may anticipate problems or overthink situations because they’re processing more information. It’s not ideal to be a bundle of nerves, but it does suggest that your brain is finely tuned to pick up on potential risks.
10. Swearing might indicate a better vocabulary.
If you have a colourful way of expressing yourself, you might have a surprisingly rich vocabulary. Research has shown that people who use swear words tend to have a stronger command of language overall. It turns out that cursing isn’t a sign of a limited vocabulary — it’s just another tool in a well-stocked linguistic toolbox.
11. Messiness can be a sign of creativity and intelligence.
A cluttered desk or a messy room doesn’t mean you’re lazy or disorganised. In fact, studies suggest that a bit of chaos can be linked to creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Messy environments encourage unconventional ideas and flexible thinking. So if your workspace is a bit untidy, take comfort — it might just be the sign of an active and inventive mind.
12. Music lessons can give your brain a boost.
Playing an instrument doesn’t just make you sound impressive — it also enhances brain function. Learning music helps develop areas of the brain associated with memory, coordination, and problem-solving. Even if you’re no longer a child prodigy, picking up an instrument as an adult can still sharpen your mind. So, if you’ve been meaning to dust off that guitar, now’s a good time.
13. Curiosity is a hallmark of intelligence.
Ever find yourself going down a rabbit hole of random facts or documentaries? That thirst for knowledge is a classic sign of intelligence. Curious people tend to ask more questions, explore new ideas, and embrace lifelong learning. Your need to understand the world around you keeps your brain active and growing. So keep exploring — your curiosity is your brain’s best workout.
