Intelligence is not limited to those with high IQs. There are also potential methods to develop one's cognitive abilities and become smarter
Here are some simple actions that could help you become a smarter person:
1 Come up with 10 ideas every day Think about how to reduce poverty, how to solve a daily problem you have, interesting movie ideas, or anything. It doesn't matter what subject your ideas fall into, as long as you're working your brain and your idea muscles. Your list might even lead to a new startup idea or writing subject.
2 Share what you learn with other people If you find someone to debate and analyse ideas with, you can add to each other's knowledge and gain new perspectives. Also, when you can explain ideas to someone else, it means you've definitely mastered the concept.You can even share what you learn without directly talking to someone. Many people like to start blogs so they can engage others in an online dialogue.
3 Follow your questions If you see or hear about something cool, don't just let the moment pass. Follow up -pursue your curiosity and find the answer to your question.
4 Read the newspaper It will help you become more aware of the important things happening around the world. You'll learn to form your own opinions and connect the dots between seemingly unrelated things. You'll also have a lot more to talk about at parties or with friends.
5 Use a word-of-the day app You will increase your vocabulary, which can help you in competitive tests like the SAT or GRE, or even just sound more eloquent in daily interactions.
You can also try to learn new vocabulary in a differ ent language. Every day, try to add five to 10 more words to the foreign language you are trying to pursue. You can use LiveMocha, Basuu, or DuoLingo.
6 Talk to someone you find interesting Even if they're strangers, don't be afraid to approach them. Ask about their interests and how they discovered them. Often, you learn the most from people you barely know.
7 Do something scary Getting out of our com fort zone always makes us wiser. Every day, push yourself a little further. Try public speaking, lead a meeting by volunteering a proposal at work or reach out to someone you really admire by sending a quick letter or email.
8 Take online courses Check out some of the most popular online courses for professionals, relevant to you. Make sure you don't overload yourself; commit to one to two and truly focus on them. The syllabus will also keep you on track, so you know you will be doing something every day, whether it's listening to a lecture or working on an assignment.
9 Play `smart' games Some games, like chess and Scrabble, expand your mind. Certain games can train the brain and muscles to perform better in real-life activities. Challenge yoursel f when you play them. For example, play Scrabble without a dictionary. You can also solve puzzles via games like Sudoku, 2048 and Doors.
10 Exercise, and eat a healthy diet Opt for brain foods to fuel your thinking, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals that will make you sluggish. When your energy dips, take a walk. The more blood f lowing into your brain, the better your performance. Great thinkers like Mahatma Gandhi and Charles Darwin were famous for their long walks.
Source | Economic Times | 14 May 2015
