Being smart is generally considered a great compliment and the good news is that we have some room for cognitive improvement that can simply be achieved by implementing the right habits into your weekly routine.
So here are five habits that, as research indicated, make you more intelligent over time:
It is challenging to define and quantify intelligence because it is a multidimensional, complex concept. Nonetheless, studies have shown that some routines and behaviors can help boost intellectual performance and cognitive function over time. The five behaviors discussed in this article—writing, picking up a new language, exercising critical thinking, establishing goals, and monitoring progress—have all been linked to increased intelligence.
Writing
Writing is a great practice that, over time, can contribute to an improvement in intelligence. Writing can aid in idea clarification, better communication, and improved information organization and analysis. The act of writing can stimulate the brain and encourage cognitive development, whether you are writing a diary entry, a blog post, or an academic paper.
Writing can also aid to sharpen memory and increase information retention. While it activates the brain in a new way and encourages deeper processing of the content, studies have shown that writing by hand can be more effective than typing on a computer when it comes to remembering knowledge.
Here you find a paper that discusses the relation between writing and cognitive function
Taking language classes
Another behavior that can gradually raise intellect is learning a new language. Through boosting memory, attention, and the capacity to multitask, learning a new language can enhance cognitive performance. According to studies, learning a new language can also help in connecting disparate concepts and problem-solving abilities.
Learning a new language can also help to boost cultural awareness, communication skills,
, and expand employment options. Also, it can give a sense of satisfaction and success, which can increase self-esteem and general well-being.
You can read more about the benefits of bilingualism here
exercising critical thought
Analyzing, assessing, and synthesizing data is a habit that helps people make wise judgments and solve problems. Through fostering analytical abilities, inventiveness, and the capacity to think creatively, critical thinking exercises can aid to improve cognitive function.
It is possible to engage in debates, solve puzzles, or evaluate information sources as strategies to exercise critical thinking. It can also be applied in daily life by examining news stories, commercials, or social media posts, for example.
Having objectives
Establishing objectives can motivate you and give you direction, which can lead to an increase in intellect.
Individuals can concentrate their efforts and strive towards reaching their intended outcomes by defining defined, quantifiable goals. Concentration, persistence, and problem-solving abilities may all benefit from this.
Setting objectives can also help you develop self-control and boost your self-esteem. Also, it can give a feeling of direction and significance, which can enhance general pleasure and well-being.
Monitoring progress
A habit of tracking progress entails keeping track of and assessing one’s performance over time. Individuals can evaluate their strengths and shortcomings, find areas for improvement, and change their strategy as necessary by keeping track of their progress. Self-awareness, motivation, and problem-solving abilities may all improve as a result.
There are several ways to measure progress, such by maintaining a notebook, utilizing a tracking app, or collaborating with others.
A mentor or coach. In order to promote general happiness and well-being, it might be beneficial to recognize and celebrate accomplishments as well as areas that require work.
In conclusion, there are a variety of practices that, over time, can aid in boosting intellect. Excellent practices that can support cognitive development and intellectual performance include writing, learning a new language, engaging in critical thought, setting objectives, and tracking progress. You can improve your cognitive skills and realize your full intellectual potential by adopting these routines into your daily life.
