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Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
People Who Bring These Things Up In Conversations Lack Social Intelligence
In social situations, certain topics can serve as red flags, signaling a lack of awareness or sensitivity. These subjects often derail conversations and can leave others feeling uncomfortable or disinterested. The truth is, some topics can be conversational quicksand, pulling the talk down into awkward territory. Here's a list of 13 conversation killers you might want to avoid if you want to keep your social intelligence intact. Talking about your finances might seem harmless, but it can easily come across as bragging. No one enjoys being around someone who constantly flaunts their wealth. In fact, a study published in the journal "Psychological Science" found that people who talk about money often are perceived as less likable. If you want to build genuine connections, steer clear of turning conversations into a highlight reel of your bank account. Instead of discussing your wealth, focus on topics that encourage mutual sharing and learning. People are generally more interested in experiences and stories rather than numbers. You might find that talking about your latest travel adventure or a new hobby can create a more engaging dialogue. By steering the conversation away from money, you open the door to more meaningful interactions. Delving into politics can quickly split the room, especially when discussing divisive issues. While you may feel passionate about your views, remember that not everyone shares the same perspective. This can lead to heated debates that overshadow the opportunity for genuine connection. To avoid alienating others, it's best to keep political opinions out of casual conversations. If political discussions do surface, try to steer the conversation toward a more neutral ground. Asking open-ended questions allows for a more balanced dialogue that encourages understanding over argument. Remember, it's often more productive to listen than to preach. Save the debates for forums where everyone is prepared for that kind of discourse. Constant complaining can be a serious buzzkill in any social setting. Venting about life's nuisances might feel cathartic to you, but it often drags down the energy of the group. According to research by Dr. Travis Bradberry, co-author of "Emotional Intelligence 2.0," negative emotions spread more quickly than positive ones, affecting everyone in earshot. Instead of focusing on the negative, try to pivot toward solutions or positive aspects of your day. If you find yourself lapsing into complaint mode, consider shifting the topic to something uplifting. Highlight successes or share amusing anecdotes that can bring a smile to others' faces. By projecting a more positive vibe, you're not only improving the mood for those around you but also for yourself. Positivity is contagious, and it can turn an otherwise dull conversation into something memorable. While it's natural to want to share personal experiences, diving into the nitty-gritty of your health issues can be off-putting. Most people are not equipped to offer medical advice, nor do they want to hear detailed accounts of ailments over dinner. It can make others uncomfortable and shift the mood in a negative direction. Keep in mind that some topics are best reserved for close friends or professionals. Instead, try to keep the conversation light and engaging. If the topic of health does come up, consider discussing general wellness tips or fitness routines. These subjects are more likely to be of interest to a wider audience. They also offer an opportunity for others to share their own tips and experiences, creating a more interactive and balanced dialogue. Sharing too much about personal drama can overwhelm and deter people from engaging in conversation with you. While it's important to have a support system, casual social settings are not always the right place for heavy emotional unloading. Clinical psychologist Dr. Andrea Bonior advises that such discussions can be emotionally taxing and might push others away if they feel burdened by your issues. Use discretion and save the intense personal stories for trusted confidants or appropriate environments. Instead of diving deep into personal issues, consider discussing broader topics like recent events or entertainment. These subjects tend to be more inclusive and allow everyone to participate. If you feel the need to talk about personal matters, gauge the interest and comfort level of your audience first. By being mindful of others' comfort, you maintain a balanced and enjoyable conversation. Gossip might feel like an easy way to bond with others, but it often backfires. Talking negatively about someone who isn't present can make you appear untrustworthy. People may wonder what you say about them when they're not around. This can lead to a breakdown in trust and undermine your social connections. If you find yourself tempted to gossip, try redirecting the conversation to something more positive. Discuss ideas, current events, or shared interests that everyone can engage with. By focusing on topics that promote inclusion rather than division, you foster a more supportive social environment. Remember, a good conversation leaves everyone involved feeling better, not worse. Criticizing someone else's life choices, whether it's their career, relationships, or lifestyle, is a quick way to shut down a conversation. Even if you're well-intentioned, unsolicited advice can come off as judgmental. According to Dr. John Gottman, a leading researcher in relationships, criticism is one of the most damaging communication behaviors. Instead of pointing out what you perceive as flaws, focus on empathy and understanding. When the urge to criticize arises, consider asking questions that promote understanding rather than judgment. This approach opens up a dialogue where others feel respected and heard. By showing genuine interest in others' perspectives, you create a more welcoming atmosphere. Positive interactions are built on mutual respect, not criticism. It's natural to want to share your own stories and achievements, but dominating the conversation can leave others feeling sidelined. People appreciate being heard and valued in a discussion. If you find yourself constantly talking about yourself, it might be time to hand the microphone over. Engagement is a two-way street, and balance is key to any successful interaction. To avoid monopolizing the conversation, make a conscious effort to ask open-ended questions. Show genuine interest in others' experiences and viewpoints. This not only enriches the conversation but also strengthens your social bonds. Remember, great conversations are about connection and discovery, not monologues. Name-dropping or boasting about who you know can quickly turn a conversation sour. It may seem like you're trying to impress, but it often comes off as insincere or pretentious. People value genuine interactions over social climbing. Building authentic relationships is about who you are, not who you know. Instead of relying on your connections to make an impression, focus on your own strengths and interests. Share stories that highlight your personality and values. By doing so, you create a more relatable and engaging presence. Genuine connections are built on authenticity, not status. Negativity can quickly drain the energy from any social interaction. While it's okay to express dissatisfaction occasionally, chronic negativity can be exhausting for those around you. If you're constantly pointing out the flaws in every situation, you might be pushing people away. Social intelligence involves being aware of how your mood affects others. If you catch yourself in a negative spiral, consciously shift your focus. Highlight positive aspects or express gratitude for small things. This adjustment can transform the entire dynamic of the conversation. A positive attitude not only benefits you but also fosters a pleasant environment for everyone involved. Religion is a deeply personal topic and can be very sensitive for many people. Bringing it up in casual conversation can lead to discomfort or even conflict. While it's important to respect everyone's beliefs, discussing religion often requires a level of intimacy that most social settings don't provide. It's wise to tread carefully and consider the context before diving into such discussions. Instead, consider topics that are more universally relatable. Engaging in discussions about shared interests or hobbies can lead to more inclusive and enjoyable conversations. If the subject of religion does arise, approach it with sensitivity and openness. Respect and understanding go a long way in maintaining a harmonious dialogue. While being open can foster connections, there's a fine line between sharing and oversharing. Revealing too much too soon can overwhelm others and make them uncomfortable. It's essential to gauge the appropriate level of intimacy for the setting and the people involved. Personal boundaries vary, and respecting them is a cornerstone of social intelligence. To maintain a comfortable atmosphere, start with light, surface-level topics. As you become more familiar with those around you, you can gradually share more personal details. This approach helps build trust and ensures that everyone feels at ease. Remember, good communication is about balance and mutual respect. Interrupting others is a surefire way to disrupt the flow of conversation. It signals that you're more interested in your own thoughts than those of others. This behavior can be frustrating and lead to a breakdown in communication. Being a good conversationalist means listening as much as you speak. If you notice yourself interrupting, make a conscious effort to listen actively. Allow others to finish their thoughts before responding. This practice not only shows respect but also enriches the conversation. By prioritizing listening, you foster a more inclusive and engaging dialogue.
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
15 Odd Traits Of People Who Felt Ugly Growing Up
Growing up, the playground often felt like an arena where beauty reigned supreme. We've all heard the old adage that beauty is only skin deep, but try telling that to your 13-year-old self. If you spent your formative years grappling with feelings of inadequacy about your appearance, you're not alone, and those experiences can shape who you are long into adulthood. Here, we explore 15 traits that often characterize those who felt ugly growing up, shedding light on how the shadows of the past color the adults we become. When you've spent years analyzing your perceived flaws, it's no surprise you've developed a hyper-observant eye for detail. You can sense someone's discomfort or insecurity from miles away, simply because you've been there. According to a study published in Psychological Science, people who were bullied for their looks tend to be more empathetic, often picking up on non-verbal cues better than their peers. This heightened awareness can make you a comforting presence in social settings, where you intuitively navigate the feelings of others. Your acute perception often extends beyond human interaction into the realms of art, fashion, or design. You notice the tiny details—the cut of a jacket, the symmetry of a photo—that many people overlook. It's not just about seeing more but feeling more, deeply ingrained from years of internal reflection. This gift, however, can also be a burden, as your critical eye often turns inward, scrutinizing yourself even when others don't. If you've ever brushed off a compliment with an awkward laugh, you might know where this is coming from. When you've spent so much time doubting your own value, accepting praise can feel like trying to wear a coat that doesn't quite fit. It's not that you don't appreciate the nice words, but old habits die hard, and skepticism lingers. Deep down, there's a part of you that questions whether the compliment is genuine or just polite rhetoric. Yet, this reluctance can also make you more mindful of how you express admiration for others. You've learned that words carry weight, so when you dish out compliments, they are genuine and thoughtful. This sincerity means that those who know you trust your words, giving them a value that is both rare and treasured. In time, you might find that the more you give, the easier it becomes to receive. Growing up feeling underappreciated often leads to a fiercely independent streak. You've learned early on that you can't rely on external validation to define your worth. Psychologist Dr. Elaine Aron suggests in her book The Highly Sensitive Person that those who face adversity in their youth often develop a strong sense of self-reliance. This independence can be a double-edged sword, as it promotes self-sufficiency but can also make you wary of leaning on others. This trait often translates into a robust work ethic and a can-do attitude in your professional life. You're the person who finds solutions when others see roadblocks, not because you have to, but because you can. However, your independence can sometimes border on isolation, making it difficult for you to ask for help even when you need it. Balancing independence with interdependence is a lifelong dance, but one that can lead to personal growth and stronger relationships. Laughter, they say, is the best medicine, and you've mastered the art of using humor as a coping mechanism. Self-deprecating humor becomes a shield, a way to beat others to the punchline about your appearance or awkwardness. It's a skill honed over years of navigating social dynamics, serving as both a deflection and a connection tool. However, while it often endears you to others, it can sometimes mask unresolved issues about self-worth. This talent for humor can foster incredible connections, making you a magnet in social situations. People appreciate your ability not to take yourself too seriously, which in turn makes them feel more comfortable around you. Yet, it's crucial to recognize when humor becomes a crutch rather than a bridge. Understanding when to set aside the jokes and embrace sincerity allows for deeper, more meaningful relationships. A history of feeling unattractive often fuels an insatiable drive to prove oneself in other areas. When you've internalized the idea that you're not enough, achieving tangible success can become a form of compensation. Research from the University of Hertfordshire found that individuals who perceive themselves as unattractive often excel in academics and careers, driven by the need to validate their worth. This relentless drive can lead to impressive accomplishments but also risks burnout if not managed carefully. Ambition can be a powerful force when channeled positively, leading to a life rich with achievements and accolades. Yet, it's essential to recognize the origins of this drive and ensure that your professional achievements align with your personal fulfillment. While external success is gratifying, understanding and appreciating your intrinsic value can provide a more sustained sense of satisfaction. Balancing ambition with self-care is crucial for long-term happiness. When societal beauty standards feel unattainable, the quest for self-expression often leads to a unique personal style. Fashion becomes your canvas, a way to articulate the version of yourself that transcends conventional aesthetics. You've learned that while you might not fit the mold, you can break it entirely, crafting a look that's distinctly yours. This individuality not only sets you apart but often inspires those around you to embrace their quirks. Your style journey is marked by experimentation, a trial-and-error process that eventually unveils your true aesthetic. Whether it's a penchant for vintage finds or a flair for bold colors, your wardrobe choices reflect your inner creativity. While others might chase trends, you understand that true style is timeless, rooted in authenticity rather than conformity. This evolution in self-presentation is a testament to the beauty of knowing and loving oneself. Having felt marginalized for your looks, you have a profound appreciation for qualities that transcend physical appearance. Kindness, intelligence, and authenticity resonate with you more deeply than a symmetrical face or perfect physique. According to psychologist Dr. Vivian Diller, people who felt unattractive growing up often develop a greater capacity for empathy and understanding. This recognition enriches your relationships, allowing you to connect on a level that many overlook. Your emphasis on inner beauty often leads you to form bonds with people who share these values. You surround yourself with individuals who inspire and uplift, valuing depth over superficial charm. While society might prioritize the fleeting allure of physical beauty, you know that true allure lies in one's character. This wisdom not only enriches your personal life but also serves as a guiding principle in how you navigate the world. For some, the quest to overcome feelings of inadequacy results in a relentless pursuit of perfection. If you've ever been dubbed a perfectionist, it might be because you've internalized the idea that being flawless in one arena could compensate for perceived deficiencies in another. This trait can drive you to excel, but it can also be paralyzing, with the fear of making mistakes hindering your progress. Balancing ambition with self-compassion becomes crucial to prevent burnout. While perfectionism can foster high standards and impressive results, it's critical to acknowledge the underlying motivations. The quest for flawlessness often masks deeper insecurities, and recognizing this is the first step toward achieving a healthier mindset. Embracing imperfection can be liberating, leading to more authentic experiences and relationships. It's in the acceptance of one's imperfections that true growth and contentment are found. When you've grown up feeling less-than-perfect, humility becomes a well-worn companion. You're less likely to rest on your laurels or tout your accomplishments, always aware there's more to learn and room to grow. This humility fosters an openness to feedback and a willingness to improve. It's a refreshing quality in a world often obsessed with self-promotion, making you a reliable and trustworthy presence in both personal and professional spheres. This grounded approach allows you to connect with others on an authentic level, free from the need to prove or boast. You understand that true strength lies in vulnerability, and this perspective fosters genuine connections. While humility is a strength, it's important to recognize your worth and celebrate your achievements. Embracing and acknowledging your successes is just as important as striving for improvement. Feeling like an outsider often breeds a deep empathy for those who find themselves on society's fringes. You root for the underdog, understanding their struggles because you've walked a similar path. This empathy extends beyond mere sentiment; it informs your actions, motivating you to advocate for fairness and equality. Your experiences become a source of strength, driving you to create a more inclusive environment for others. This compassionate mindset influences how you engage with the world, often leading you to champion causes that align with your values. Whether it's volunteering, mentoring, or simply lending a listening ear, you're driven by a desire to uplift those who feel marginalized. While your empathy is a gift, it's important to balance it with self-care to avoid emotional exhaustion. Taking time to recharge ensures you can continue to give back sustainably. Growing up feeling unattractive often involves overcoming numerous social hurdles, building resilience along the way. You've faced rejection, judgment, and exclusion, yet emerged stronger, equipped with a toolkit for handling adversity. This resilience becomes a defining trait, enabling you to navigate life's challenges with grace and determination. It's not about avoiding failure but learning and growing from each stumble. Your tenacity inspires those around you, demonstrating the power of perseverance and grit. You've learned to adapt and thrive, turning setbacks into stepping stones toward future success. However, it's crucial to recognize when resilience turns into relentless endurance, risking burnout. Knowing when to pause and recharge is as important as pushing through challenges, ensuring your well-being remains a priority. If you've felt undervalued because of your looks, you're likely wary of relationships that don't go beyond the surface. You know firsthand that appearances can be deceiving, and you prioritize depth and authenticity in your connections. This skepticism often results in a smaller circle of friends, but the bonds you form are genuine and meaningful. You value quality over quantity, seeking out relationships that enrich your life rather than simply fill it. However, this wariness can sometimes make it challenging to open up and trust others fully. You're protective of your heart, cautious of letting people in until you're sure they see and appreciate the real you. Striking a balance between skepticism and openness can lead to more fulfilling connections. Embracing vulnerability is key, allowing you to experience the richness of human connection without fear. When you've felt inadequate growing up, the pursuit of self-improvement becomes ingrained in your psyche. You're constantly seeking ways to better yourself, whether through education, skills, or personal development. This drive for self-betterment is both a strength and a challenge, pushing you to achieve but sometimes leaving you feeling never quite enough. Recognizing this pattern is the first step toward embracing a healthier view of personal growth. The quest for improvement often leads you to explore diverse interests and passions, enriching your life with new experiences. You become a lifelong learner, always curious and open to new possibilities. While self-improvement is commendable, it's essential to balance this drive with self-acceptance. Understanding that growth is a journey, not a destination, allows you to appreciate the progress you've made. When someone sees past your perceived flaws to the person you truly are, you reward them with fierce loyalty. You understand the rarity of genuine connection and cherish those who appreciate you for more than just appearances. This loyalty is unwavering, a testament to the value you place on authentic relationships. In a world full of fleeting interactions, you become the steadfast friend or partner others can rely on. However, this loyalty can sometimes lead to staying in relationships that aren't mutually beneficial. Your desire to maintain connections can make it difficult to recognize when it's time to let go. Finding the balance between loyalty and self-respect is crucial for your well-being. Prioritizing your needs alongside your dedication to others ensures healthier, more balanced relationships. Despite—or perhaps because of—the challenges faced growing up, you've developed an unshakeable sense of self. You know who you are, independent of societal standards of beauty or acceptance. This self-awareness becomes a guiding force, informing your choices and actions with authenticity and confidence. While others may conform to fit in, you stand firm in your identity, embracing what makes you unique. This strong sense of identity empowers you to pursue paths that align with your values and passions. You're not swayed by trends or external pressures, choosing instead to live a life true to yourself. While this confidence is empowering, it's also important to remain open to growth and change. Embracing the fluidity of self allows you to evolve while staying rooted in your core values.
Mint
30-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
Why economists should like booze
Sobriety is taking over the world. The amount of alcohol consumed globally is probably in decline for the first time in history. Across rich countries many members of Gen Z—born after the late 1990s—are shunning alcohol entirely: 30% of Americans in their 20s did not drink in the previous year. Even in France young professionals no longer have a pichet of wine with lunch. Elites seem especially likely to snub the bottle. Three of the past four American presidents are teetotal (Barack Obama enjoyed a martini). In Silicon Valley temperance is a status symbol. Marc Andreessen, an investor, quit alcohol in 2022. Sam Altman of OpenAI writes about 'how much changed when people stopped drinking alcohol all day". Elon Musk refers to alcohol as a 'legacy drug". Dinner meetings with founders are fuelled by green tea. An individual who gives up drinking can look forward to health benefits. They may lose weight. They may sleep better. Yet from an economist's point of view, teetotalism is an incoherent and damaging ideology—for three big reasons. First, teetotallers are free-riders. For generations alcohol consumption has sustained all manner of social and economic structures. The abstemious benefit from them but do not contribute. For instance, non-drinkers who go to social events are free-riding on the joviality of hard-working drinkers. What would happen to the social fabric if everyone stopped imbibing? Perhaps Joe Strummer of the Clash, an English rock band, was on to something when he apocryphally said that 'non-smokers should be banned from buying any product a smoker created". Or consider the economics of the restaurant industry. Alcohol offers higher profit margins than food as it requires less labour to prepare. Indeed, using official American data, your columnist estimates that booze accounts for all the profits of the restaurant industry. Drinkers subsidise non-drinkers. Those who order sparkling water can feel sanctimonious in the short run. But if no one orders a bottle of Bordeaux, many restaurants will go under. In San Francisco, Sobriety Central, they are closing by the dozen. Second, abstinence makes people lonelier. For centuries alcohol has served a social function. It helps people relax. Taking a drink also signals to others that you are happy to be slower and more vulnerable—that you have left your weapon at the door—which puts them at ease. A study from 2012 in Psychological Science found that alcohol increases social bonding. Robin Dunbar of Oxford University and colleagues find that frequenting a pub improves how engaged people feel with their community, in turn raising life satisfaction. It is not a stretch to say that alcohol has played a big evolutionary role in fostering human connection. Many couples credit alcohol, at least in part, for bringing them together. So it may not be a coincidence that the alcohol-shunning young are lonely. Americans aged 15 to 24 spend a third less time socialising than they did in the early 2000s. A study published in 2021 by Jean Twenge of San Diego State University and colleagues found 'worldwide increases in adolescent loneliness". Young people are having less sex than older generations. When it is harder to relax, partnering up is more difficult. The third factor in favour of booze relates to innovation. Today the world sees fewer breakthroughs. Hollywood sustains itself on remakes or sequels, not originals. A recent blog by Peter Ruppert, a consultant, finds the same trend for music: 'the pace of genuine sonic innovation has slowed dramatically". A paper published in 2020 by Nicholas Bloom of Stanford University and colleagues concludes that new ideas are 'harder to find". Productivity growth across the world is weak. Something has gone terribly wrong in the way that Western societies generate new ideas. In the short term, avoiding alcohol is helpful for working efficiently. If you have a big presentation tomorrow, it is a good idea to stay off the sauce tonight. But consider the kind of world that alcohol allows to exist—even if messily, unreliably and at some cost—and abstention seems less sensible. For centuries creative folk, from Aeschylus to Coleridge to Dickens, have relied on alcohol for inspiration. In the 1960s, when productivity was soaring, everyone was drunk all the time. No other drug has played such a consistent role in human innovation. Being intoxicated opens up the possibility of accidents of insight. Purely rational, linear minds have fewer of the flashes of brilliance that can turn an art form or an industry upside-down. It allows brains to disconnect. A study of American painters in 1946 by Ann Roe of Yale University noted that 'a nightly cocktail before dinner may contribute to the avoidance of a state of chronic tension, creative activity is at its height." Studies suggest that alcohol, deployed judiciously, can aid the creative process. Andrew Jarosz of Mississippi State University and colleagues have found that intoxicated people solved problems faster and 'were more likely to perceive their solutions as the result of a sudden insight". A similar paper by Mathias Benedek of the University of Graz, in Austria, and colleagues concludes that 'certain aspects of creative cognition benefit from mild attenuations of cognitive control". In the short run, intoxication may limit your brain's processing power—and that can be frustrating. The long-term effects are much less clear. Call me old-fashioned The best approach, as with most things in life, is moderation: not Ernest Hemingway-levels of drinking, but not abstention either. What leads to successful human relationships and breakthrough innovations remains poorly understood. So, even if you are a Silicon Valley whizzkid who wants to change the world, it is best not to mess around with traditions too much. Gin from the freezer, good vermouth, and a twist. Subscribers to The Economist can sign up to our Opinion newsletter, which brings together the best of our leaders, columns, guest essays and reader correspondence.
IOL News
26-06-2025
- Science
- IOL News
10 questions to uncover your hidden genius: science says you might be smarter than you think
According to modern neuroscience and psychology, genius isn't always about sky-high IQ scores or academic accolades. But according to modern neuroscience and psychology, genius isn't always about sky-high IQ scores or academic accolades. What does it really mean to be a genius? For many of us, the word brings up images of Einstein scribbling formulas or child prodigies playing Mozart at age four. It's often hidden in everyday habits, quirks, and patterns of thinking that most people overlook. This list isn't a formal intelligence test, but it is backed by science. These 10 questions, drawn from real psychological studies, could reveal whether your brain works in ways that match some of the world's most gifted minds. So, are you secretly a genius? Let's find out. 1. Did you start reading before the age of five? Early readers might have a cognitive edge. A long-term study published in Psychological Science tracked thousands of twins in the UK and found that children who learned to read earlier than their siblings scored significantly higher on verbal IQ tests even when raised in the same environment. Early readers scored about 5 IQ points higher than later readers. This suggests that early literacy may shape intelligence, not just reflect it. 2. Do you talk to yourself, out loud or in your head? We're often told that talking to ourselves is a little weird, but science says it's a sign of higher brain function. A study in the Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology found that people who verbalised their thoughts while solving problems performed up to 78% better than those who stayed silent. Self-directed speech helps improve focus, memory, and emotional regulation, all key components of executive brain function. 3. Are you sensitive to background noise or visual distractions? If flickering lights or a buzzing fridge get on your nerves, it might be because your brain is unusually alert. Research published in Current Biology shows that highly intelligent people are often more sensitive to sensory input and struggle to "filter out" irrelevant sights or sounds. People with high IQs show lower sensory gating, meaning their brains are more open to incoming stimuli. This could explain why working in a noisy café can feel like a mental battlefield. 4. Did you excel in subjects like maths even if you hated them? A strong foundation in mathematics is one of the most reliable indicators of fluid intelligence, your brain's ability to reason and solve new problems. A study published in the South African Journal of Education in 2022 found that matric students in the top 10% for maths scored up to 13 IQ points higher than those who favoured non-numerical subjects. Even if you didn't enjoy maths, doing well in it often points to strong logical thinking and cognitive flexibility. 5. Do you often doubt your intelligence or feel like a fraud? Welcome to the paradox of smart people. The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology explains this with the Dunning-Kruger effect: intelligent people tend to underestimate their abilities, while less competent individuals often overestimate theirs. That "imposter syndrome" you're feeling? It might be a sign you're smarter than you think. 6. Are you curious? Curiosity is one of the most underrated traits linked to intelligence. Researchers at Goldsmiths, University of London, found that highly intelligent people score much higher on measures of intellectual curiosity. If you're the person always asking why, how, or what if, you may be feeding a brain that thrives on knowledge and complexity. 7. Do you love spending time alone? You might enjoy your own company more than most. A study published in the British Journal of Psychology found that smarter people tend to experience greater life satisfaction when they have less frequent social interaction. Highly intelligent people often crave deep focus and meaningful connection, rather than constant small talk. 8. Do you struggle with routines or get bored easily? Creativity and intelligence often go hand in hand, and boredom is a known side effect of a brain that's always firing. The Creativity Research Journal links high intelligence with a preference for novelty, flexibility, and spontaneity. P.S. If you're constantly daydreaming, jumping between ideas, or resisting the 9-to-5 grind, your brain may just be wired for innovation. 9. Are you emotionally sensitive? We often forget that emotional intelligence (EQ) is just as important as IQ. Studies from Yale University's Center for Emotional Intelligence suggest that people with high emotional sensitivity often score higher in social cognition, a key marker of interpersonal genius. Being in tune with your own emotions and others' isn't soft. It's smart. 10. Do you remember random facts or absorb info like a sponge? If you tend to remember odd details from documentaries or conversations, you might have a brain that's especially good at semantic memory, the type of memory that holds general world knowledge. Science says: Strong semantic memory is a core component of crystallised intelligence, which grows as we age and learn. Not all geniuses look like what we've been told. You might not be building rockets or writing symphonies, but your everyday habits, your ability to self-reflect, adapt, and stay curious, could be the very things that make you brilliant.
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Longevity Experts Say That Mastering This One Skill Could Add Years to Your Life
A new study found that among four cognitive abilities tested in older adults, verbal fluency (the ability to use language quickly and effectively) was significantly associated with a longer life span. Experts believe verbal fluency may serve as a proxy for biological resilience, as it relies on multiple brain functions—including memory, attention, processing speed, and executive functioning—all working in sync. Improving verbal fluency is possible at any age with regular challenges like naming games, deep conversations, strategic board games, storytelling, and even learning a new language—all of which stimulate brain function and support healthy it comes to aging, research has shown that intelligence can predict your longevity. But intelligence is a vague concept, and it doesn't give us much of an idea of what we can do to exercise our brains. However, a new study published in the journal Psychological Science has pinpointed a more specific trait in people who live longer: verbal fluency. The researchers gave participants—aged 70 to 105—tests measuring four cognitive abilities: verbal fluency (mastery of language), perceptual speed (the ability to access patterns quickly), verbal knowledge (vocabulary), and episodic memory (ability to recall and remember personal experiences). They also developed a model that assessed their risk of death. After analyzing the data, researchers determined that out of the four cognitive abilities they tested, verbal fluency alone appeared to have a significant link to longevity—but they're not sure why. Although the link between verbal fluency and longevity is not yet understood, Paolo Ghisletta, PhD, lead author of the study, has two possible theories. The first is that the physical body is inextricably linked to mental, emotional, and cognitive processes. 'All of these domains are just declining together, whether it's cognition, personality, emotions, or biological, medical decline in general,' he said in a statement. In addition to that, Ghisletta recognizes that verbal fluency could be a good measure of well-being, because it's a complex process involving multiple cognitive abilities, potentially including long-term memory, vocabulary, efficiency, and visual memory. Dr. Kimberly Idoko, neurologist and medical director at Everwell Neuro, agrees, noting that verbal fluency utilizes multiple brain functions, like memory, attention, processing speed, and the ability to organize and express ideas quickly. It also depends on strong connections between different parts of the brain—especially the frontal and temporal lobes. 'When someone can find and use words with ease, it suggests that the brain's regions are connecting well,' Idoko says. 'And when fluency starts to decline, it often suggests broader issues in brain function. So, strong verbal fluency may reflect biological resilience.' Let's break it down a bit more. 'In order to express a word, you come up with an idea or a thought,' says Polina Shkadron, neurodivergent therapist and founder of Play to Learn Consulting. 'Then, to communicate that thought to someone else, you pull from your language resources to choose specific words in a particular order so that the listener is able to also comprehend what you are describing.' Essentially, you are using language to implant your idea into someone else's mind. 'As the speaker, you also have a feedback loop, meaning that once you express your idea, you are analyzing it simultaneously to make sure that the words are exactly what you wanted in that moment and in that context,' she explains. While having extensive knowledge of vocabulary is part of communicative interactions, it's not the only part. 'You also need to have knowledge of how language is formed and used,' Shkadron says. 'Language use, referred to as pragmatics, is the way in which we facilitate conversational interactions. We use specific terms depending on the situation and the people in that environment.' Verbal fluency is also determined by executive functioning capacities—especially verbal working memory—as well as impulse inhibition and cognitive flexibility, Shkadron notes. 'For instance, to have an extensive conversation with someone else, your brain needs the skills to hold onto specific information, process what the other person is telling you—without interrupting them—determine whether that information is relevant or irrelevant, and keep the conversation going based on the topic being discussed,' she explains. Related: Clear Brain Fog Instantly With These 12 Effective Strategies The good news is that you can start improving your verbal fluency today, and keep it up over the years. 'The most important ingredients are challenge, variety, and frequency,' Idoko says. To get you started, here are some suggestions from Idoko and Shkadron. Set a timer for one minute or 90 seconds, and pick a category—like animals, foods you'd find in a grocery store, or items you'd find outdoors in nature, things that start with the letter 'S'—and name as many as you can before the timer goes off. You can challenge yourself or others and make a game out of it. The person who named the highest number of things in the category wins. (It's also a perfect game for a road trip.) According to Idoko, this activity 'activate[s] the same circuits I test in clinical exams.' Both Idoko and Shkadron mentioned that staying verbally active through having conversations with others is a great way to stay social and keep up with your language skills. More specifically, Shkadron recommends conversations that are about individual interests. 'People who stay verbally active through conversation, reading, or teaching tend to live longer and maintain better cognitive function,' Idoko says. 'So verbal fluency may reflect how much someone is using their brain to stay connected.' According to Shkadron, strategic board games that require you to use all aspects of executive functioning are beneficial. She suggests Blokus, Ticket to Ride, Settlers of Catan, Rummikub, The Oregon Trail, and Bananagrams. 'The cognitive shifting and strategy that occurs involves language planning and deliberating your moves, as well as the moves of your opponents,' she explains. Related: Do Brain Games Really Work to Boost Cognitive Fitness? This ancient oral tradition is also a great way to flex your language skills, Idoko says. '[Storytelling] artistically uses language to develop all of the critical components involved in the communication process,' say the authors of a 2001 study on literacy techniques and storytelling. 'Storytelling develops listening skills, enhances verbal expression, increases comprehension, creates mental images, and highlights verbal reasoning.' Consider trying your hand at creative writing or journaling to get started—you don't have to be an expert to reap the benefits of storytelling. Do you regret not taking Spanish in high school? Have you always wanted to learn Japanese? Well, there's no time like the present, regardless of your age. A 2012 study found that learning a new language is associated with the growth of the hippocampus—an area of that brain that's involved with handling memories, learning, and dealing with emotion. This is important because the hippocampus is among the first parts of the brain affected by memory loss. Read the original article on Real Simple
