There’s a vast difference between thinking you’re smart and actually being smart.

This distinction can often be overlooked. Many people might believe they’re intelligent, while their actions might suggest otherwise.

Being genuinely smart, as per psychology, is not about flaunting big words or scoring high on an IQ test.

According to psychologists, there are subtle indicators that reveal if a person is truly intelligent. And trust me, it’s not always what you’d expect.

Here are 9 signs that you’re genuinely smart, as validated by psychology. Let’s dive in and see if you identify with any of these traits.

1) You’re a curious cat

We all know that curiosity killed the cat, but according to psychology, it might just be the sign of a genuinely smart human.

Intelligence isn’t always about knowing all the answers, but rather questioning and seeking out those answers.

Curiosity drives us to explore, learn, and understand more about the world around us. It’s the fuel behind every great innovator, scientist and philosopher.

Psychologists consider a curious mind as a clear sign of intelligence. Why? Because being inquisitive suggests an active and engaged brain, eager to absorb new knowledge and information.

If you’re someone who loves to learn, ask questions, and dive into unknown territories, this could be a sign that you’re genuinely smart.

It’s not just about having knowledge; it’s about wanting to know more.

2) You’re adaptable

Adaptability is another sign psychologists associate with genuine intelligence.

Let me share a personal example.

I remember a time when I was transferred to a new team at work. The team was using a completely different software system than what I was used to, and they had their own unique way of doing things.

Instead of panicking or resisting the change, I took it as an opportunity to learn something new. I spent hours understanding the new software, adapting to the team’s work culture, and within a couple of weeks, I had become an integral part of the team.

Being able to adapt to new situations or environments is a sign of intelligence because it shows a capacity to learn and apply new information quickly. It demonstrates mental flexibility and the ability to think on your feet.

3) You’re a night owl

While being an early bird has its benefits, staying up late might just be a sign of high intelligence.

Research has shown that people who prefer to stay up late, and do their best work at night, often score higher on measures of intelligence.

This doesn’t mean that you need to start pulling all-nighters to prove your smarts. But if you naturally find yourself most alert and productive when the moon is high, it could be an indicator of your intellectual prowess.

When someone teases you about your late-night habits, you can tell them it might just be because you’re genuinely smart.

4) You appreciate complexity

If you’re someone who enjoys tackling complex problems, embracing ambiguity, and diving into intricate details, this could be a sign of your intelligence.

Intelligent people don’t shy away from complexity; instead, they find it intriguing. They crave intellectual stimulation and see complicated scenarios as opportunities to challenge their thinking and broaden their understanding.

Whether it’s solving a difficult puzzle, understanding the nuances of a philosophical argument, or navigating a complicated work project, your ability to handle and appreciate complexity could be a strong indicator of your genuine smarts.

5) You’re self-critical

While it might not always feel like a positive trait, being self-critical is actually a sign of intelligence.

Genuinely smart individuals are often aware of their own limitations and aren’t afraid to acknowledge them. They understand that nobody is perfect, including themselves, and they’re constantly analyzing their actions, looking for ways to improve.

This trait shows a high level of self-awareness and the ability to learn from mistakes.

6) You’re empathetic

Empathy isn’t just about being kind and understanding. It’s about truly feeling with others, experiencing their emotions as if they were your own.

This ability to connect on a deep emotional level is a sign of emotional intelligence, which psychologists consider a crucial aspect of overall intelligence.

Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes requires a sophisticated understanding of human emotions and interactions. It’s not easy to set your perspective aside and genuinely understand someone else’s feelings and experiences.

7) You’re a bit of a worrier

It may surprise you, but being prone to worrying could indicate higher intelligence.

There was a time in my life when I worried excessively about everything – from my career choices to my relationships. It used to keep me up at night, and I often felt like it was holding me back.

But then I came across some research that suggested a link between worrying and intelligence. Apparently, individuals with high intelligence tend to worry more because their minds can perceive and process more potential outcomes and scenarios.

8) You love a good challenge

If you’re someone who sees a mountain and wants to climb it, not because it’s easy, but precisely because it’s hard, you’re likely genuinely smart.

Intelligent people thrive on challenges. They see them as opportunities to learn, grow and test their abilities. They’re not deterred by the possibility of failure, but are driven by the potential for personal growth.

Whether it’s tackling a complex problem at work, learning a new language, or trying a new sport, your love for challenges could be a clear sign of your intelligence. It shows your resilience, determination and thirst for knowledge – all key traits of genuinely smart individuals.

9) You’re open-minded

Being open-minded, willing to consider new ideas and perspectives, is perhaps one of the most fundamental signs of true intelligence.

Intelligent people understand that they don’t know everything and that their way isn’t always the best or only way. They’re open to learning from others and are willing to change their perspective when presented with new information.

Open-mindedness is a sign of intellectual humility and curiosity, both of which are key traits of genuinely smart people. It shows that you appreciate the vastness of knowledge and the diversity of human experience, and are always eager to expand your understanding.