Skip to main content

While many people would have you believe that intelligent people live a glamorous life, if you are intelligent, you likely understand that with intelligence comes a number of struggles. Included in those struggles are the common bad habits that are shared by the most intelligent people.

intelligence

Engraving brain illustration in gray scale monochrome color on white background

In fact, even psychologists and other science experts acknowledge the handful of bad habits that come with the territory of being highly intelligent. And if you have never thought of these before, then prepare to hear the proverbial shattering of glass as you read along.

They Are Stubborn.

Intelligent people can get stuck in a cycle of what is often referred to as a fixed mindset. While they do so based on what works, in order to grow as a person and to enhance your intellectual abilities, it is important to realize that there are other patterns/habits that will not only work but may work better than your current structure.

For those looking to understand and break free from a fixed mindset, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck is an insightful read.

They Are Night Owls

Charles Darwin, Winston Churchill, and other intelligent people remain infamous for their habit of staying up into the later hours of the night. And it makes sense when you consider that psychologists acknowledge a link between high intelligence and the tendency to be a night owl.

Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams” by Matthew Walker provides fascinating insights into sleep patterns, including those of night owls.

Intelligent People Are Messier Than the Rest

Do you tend to leave behind a big mess? Regardless of whether it stays this way, or if you clean it up, if you tend to leave bigger messes than others, it’s likely that you are smarter than most.

The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload” by Daniel J. Levitin offers an understanding of how intelligent minds can manage mess and chaos effectively.

And They Curse Like a Sailor

Well, apparently I am super intelligent because I am quite creative with the curse words! According to Psychologists From Marist College, people who used curse words typically have a higher vocabulary than those who didn’t. Hmmph. Take that word nannies!