I was having a discussion a couple of days ago about intelligence. Always an interesting subject and one often prone to cause arguments (no, not this time).
Just like assholes, everybody has an opinion. Now I'm a little smarter than average, at least so the tests say. In any group of 100 people I'm suppose to smarter than 98 of them. I like to think that maturity has been of more benefit than any natural gift, so in no particular order a few serious and I hope humble points.
1. Just because you're smarter doesn't mean you know more. There are a lot of people who know more than you. Shutup, listen and maybe learn.
2. There is often knowledge to be gleaned from even those who may seem to have the least. Maybe it's just what not to do.
3. Even smart people often do really dumb things, even when they know better. Hey guys, how many times does the little head overrule the big one? If you can't be a good example you'll just have to be a horrible warning.
4. Intelligence is no guarantee of success. You need to use it and you need to work at it, at least for most of us. Many tests have shown that success more often relies on good looks, personality, connections and just dumb luck. That explains Jessica Simpson and most real estate agents.
5. Use it but don't flaunt it. Sure, if you're trying for a job try to act smart and capable but it's probably a good idea not to try to act smarter than the interviewer and to show you're willing to learn new things. Some self-deprecating humor goes a hell of a long ways with making friends and connections.
Doing all that will probably make you a smarter person. All said, I'm far from perfect. I fall by the wayside. I enjoy being a smartass way too often, but I also enjoy most sitting around having good conversations about people, politics and society in general. I have some pretty smart family and friends who like that too.
Cheers!
