July 31, 2025 • 29 mins
What if you could actually train your brain to be smarter—starting today? In this episode, we reveal the sixteen science-backed habits that can supercharge your intelligence and transform your mental well-being. Forget the myth that intelligence is set in stone; your brain is more flexible and powerful than you think!
Discover how simple daily practices—like asking better questions, reading widely, surrounding yourself with smart people, and embracing reflective thinking—can unlock new levels of cognitive development. We’ll also dive into the surprising connection between physical health and brain power, showing how exercise, a balanced diet, and even an organized environment can boost your mental performance.
Packed with practical tips, witty insights, and a dash of controversy (spoiler: your IQ is not your destiny!), this episode is your ultimate guide to building a smarter, healthier, and more productive you. Whether you’re a lifelong learner, a self-improvement junkie, or just looking for a mental edge, you’ll want to listen till the very end.
Ready to level up your mind? Hit play, subscribe, and share this episode with your friends—because intelligence is contagious, and it starts with you!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/life-hacks-diy-more-transform-your-everyday-with-simple-tricks-and-diy-magic--5995484/support.
Discover how simple daily practices—like asking better questions, reading widely, surrounding yourself with smart people, and embracing reflective thinking—can unlock new levels of cognitive development. We’ll also dive into the surprising connection between physical health and brain power, showing how exercise, a balanced diet, and even an organized environment can boost your mental performance.
Packed with practical tips, witty insights, and a dash of controversy (spoiler: your IQ is not your destiny!), this episode is your ultimate guide to building a smarter, healthier, and more productive you. Whether you’re a lifelong learner, a self-improvement junkie, or just looking for a mental edge, you’ll want to listen till the very end.
Ready to level up your mind? Hit play, subscribe, and share this episode with your friends—because intelligence is contagious, and it starts with you!
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/life-hacks-diy-more-transform-your-everyday-with-simple-tricks-and-diy-magic--5995484/support.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Okay, so let's really think about this. What do you
believe truly sets you know, genuinely smart people apart. Is
it just something they're born with, like they just got lucky,
or is there maybe something more going on, something you
can actually like work on and grow.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
That's a great question to start with, because, yeah, for ages,
I think many of us got into that idea that
intelligence is fixed.
Speaker 3 (00:23):
You've either got it or you don't.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
Right, you look at these you know, brilliant entrepreneurs or scientists,
amazing writers, and you just kind of assume, Wow, they're
just built different exactly.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
But what if that whole way of thinking is actually
you know, holding us back. Yeah, what if it's stopping
us from tapping into our own potential?
Speaker 1 (00:39):
Ah? Okay, So that's where our source material comes in
for the steep dive.
Speaker 3 (00:42):
Precisely.
Speaker 2 (00:43):
It takes that old idea of static intelligence and just
well it challenges it head on. It argues pretty emphatically
that intelligence isn't some set attribute at all.
Speaker 1 (00:53):
Okay, so what is it? Then?
Speaker 2 (00:54):
It's presented more as a flexible kind of evolving ability,
something you can seriously improve based on how you learn,
how you stimulate your brain, how you live your life
day to day.
Speaker 1 (01:07):
So it's not just about having a high IQ from
the start.
Speaker 3 (01:10):
Not primarily.
Speaker 2 (01:11):
No, what really smart people seem to consistently show isn't
just innate talent, but this.
Speaker 3 (01:20):
Deep dedication, a.
Speaker 2 (01:22):
Commitment to specific lifestyle habits, habits that actively support and
protect their mental health, their cognitive function.
Speaker 1 (01:29):
Okay, so it's more of a continuous journey cultivating it.
Speaker 3 (01:32):
That's it exactly.
Speaker 2 (01:33):
It's cultivation, not a fixed destination.
Speaker 1 (01:35):
And that sounds like the mission for today's deep dive.
Then we're going to unpack what sixteen specific habits.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Sixteen Yeah, and these aren't just vague ideas. They're actionable, practical,
daily things, habits that our sources suggest, top entrepreneurs and
academics often share.
Speaker 1 (01:48):
And the goal is to show you, the listener, how
these habits can help you actually cultivate your own intelligence,
become demonstrably smarter every single day.
Speaker 2 (01:56):
Right, we're not just listing them, We're digging into why
they work, what's the mechanism behind them, and really importantly,
how you can actually start integrating them into your own life,
make them stick, making.
Speaker 1 (02:08):
That shift, like you said, from just accepting where you
are mentally to actively intentionally growing.
Speaker 3 (02:15):
Exactly empowering you.
Speaker 2 (02:17):
These aren't just nice suggestions, they're like the building blocks
for a sharper, more agile mind.
Speaker 1 (02:22):
Okay, I'm ready, let's dive in. Where do we start.
What's the foundation?
Speaker 2 (02:26):
Well, the foundation appropriately is all about fueling that curiosity
and building mental agility. Makes sense, And the very first
habit our sources spotlight is well, it sounds simple, but
it's huge ask questions.
Speaker 1 (02:39):
Uh.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
I know the German philosopher Hans Cord Gattimer, he had
this famous quote, knowledge can only be with those who
have questions, And that really just nails the essence of learning,
doesn't it.
Speaker 1 (02:49):
It really does. It makes me think about kids. You know,
they're endless why questions? Why is the sky blue? Why
do cats meow? All that stuff?
Speaker 2 (02:57):
Yeah, they're natural explorers totally.
Speaker 1 (03:01):
But then as adults we kind of lose that. We
get hesitant. Maybe we're afraid of looking stupid if we
ask something basic.
Speaker 2 (03:08):
That's a huge point our sources make. That fear of
looking stupid. It actively stops people from seeking understanding.
Speaker 1 (03:15):
When really learning requires asking questions. It's not just part
of it, it's like the engine.
Speaker 2 (03:21):
Absolutely Gatamer's point is that asking isn't a sign of ignorance,
it's the start of knowing. It's active engagement. You're not
just passively receiving stuff, You're poking at it, digging deeper.
Speaker 1 (03:33):
So it's not just asking other people, but asking yourself too, yes, and.
Speaker 2 (03:36):
Then taking the initiative to find the answers yourself.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
Our sources suggest this specifically, instead of defaulting to say,
watching TV or scrolling social media.
Speaker 1 (03:45):
Which is easy to do, so easy.
Speaker 2 (03:47):
Instead dedicate some time to actively research things online or
in books, things you're curious about, things you feel you
don't quite get. Our sources call this practice easy but
time consuming, but they stress it can considerably increase your
intelligence because it's a mindset shift.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
From consumer to seeker exactly.
Speaker 2 (04:05):
From passive consumption to active investigation. And that applies everywhere
personal interests, work challenges, even figuring out why your toast
burned this morning. It's about investigating, not just assuming.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
I like that frame, A shift from assumption to investigation. Yeah,
that feels really foundational. So from asking where do we
go next? How we take information.
Speaker 2 (04:26):
In precisely, which leads us right into habit number two.
Read across genres.
Speaker 1 (04:32):
Okay, reading makes sense.
Speaker 2 (04:33):
Our sources literally describe reading as the mental exercise your
brain needs to be in tip top shape.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Which is kind of funny when you think about it.
We have access to almost everything ever written right on
our phones, tablets, whatever, libraries in our pockets.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
It's incredible access.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
And yet how often do we end up just, you know,
scrolling watching cat videos. Guilty is charged.
Speaker 2 (04:54):
Sometimes, oh absolutely, we all do it. And look, sometimes
you need that downtime, That mindless scrolling can be a
way to unwind. Our sources even acknowledge it's not realistic
or healthy to use all of your free time doing this. Okay,
fair enough, But the key point is your brain needs
more than just that passive, superficial stuff. Consistent reading does
more than just keep you informed.
Speaker 1 (05:15):
What else does it do?
Speaker 2 (05:16):
It actually helps teach your brain to function well. It
trains it to continuously learn new things. The sources recommend
focusing on things like books, instructional periodicals, and link the
articles and websites.
Speaker 1 (05:29):
Stuff that requires a bit more.
Speaker 2 (05:30):
Focus exactly, things that demand sustained attention, deeper processing, and
the real power isn't necessarily reading more and piece every week.
Speaker 1 (05:39):
It's consistency, even just a little bit each day.
Speaker 2 (05:42):
Yeah, our sources say, even just reading a portion of
a chapter each day adds up over time.
Speaker 3 (05:47):
Your intellect will grow.
Speaker 2 (05:48):
Because you're not just passively absorbing facts. You're training your brain,
training it to analyze, synthesize, evaluate, connect ideas.
Speaker 1 (05:57):
So it's like weightlifting for the brain.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
That's a perfect analogy. It's actively working those cognitive muscles.
It's a conscious choice. Maybe swap fifteen minutes of scrolling
for fifteen minutes of reading something substantial. The benefits really
do compound.
Speaker 1 (06:11):
Okay, that feels like a manageable challenge. Pick up a
book instead of the phone. I know the feeling afterwards
is different. And speaking of processing things deeply, that leads
nicely into the next habit, right number three, Take time
to think.
Speaker 2 (06:26):
Yes, absolutely crucial, especially now we're constantly bombarded with information
right totally.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
Information overload is real, and our.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
Sources point out that because of this, we are all
easily distracted from one thing to another, not properly understanding
the true essence of the information received.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
We just skim the surface exactly.
Speaker 2 (06:45):
So this habit is about consciously taking pauses to reflect
on what you've learned. It's described as highly beneficial and
just an important part of the learning process.
Speaker 1 (06:55):
It sounds so simple, just pausing, but we rarely do it.
Speaker 3 (06:58):
We don't.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
We're conditioned for speed, for immediate reaction. But that pause,
that reflection time, is where the magic happens. Our sources
explain that when you pause.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
You create space, space for what.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
Space to consider, all the factors that might directly or
indirectly have a connection to whatever you're dealing with. It
lets you plan three to five steps ahead, so you're
less likely to be, as they say, caught lacking.
Speaker 1 (07:23):
Okay, so it's not just about learning, but about planning
and strategy too.
Speaker 2 (07:27):
Definitely, and it applies to conversations as well. The sources
make this interesting point. Smart people listen more and talk less,
and they manage to get a lot done with fewer words.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
Why is that.
Speaker 2 (07:39):
It's not about being shy. It's because they're listening as active.
They're processing, reflecting, analyzing while listening before formulating a response,
not just jumping in.
Speaker 1 (07:48):
So less reactive, more thoughtful.
Speaker 2 (07:50):
Precisely, so, the idea is to consciously build in these
reflection breaks after a meeting, after reading something complex even
just during a busy patch in your daywtes.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
What does that achieve in the moment?
Speaker 2 (08:02):
Deeper understanding, better memory consolidation, more intelligent decision making. It's
the difference between just, you know, encountering information and truly
integrating it.
Speaker 1 (08:12):
It's like letting the information settle and sync in deliberately
slowing down in a fast world.
Speaker 3 (08:18):
You got it.
Speaker 2 (08:19):
And when you've done that pausing and processing, you're naturally
better prepared to engage with the world around you more effectively.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
Which seems like a perfect transition to our next section,
looking at how our environment and experiences shape our intelligence.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Exactly, moving beyond purely internal habits to how we interact
with the external world. And this is where things get
really interesting.
Speaker 1 (08:41):
Okay, what's the first habit here?
Speaker 2 (08:42):
Habit number four is potentially quite impactful. Hang out with
smart people.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
Ah, you are the average of the five people you
spend the most time with.
Speaker 2 (08:53):
Idea sort of yeah.
Speaker 1 (08:55):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (08:55):
Our sources put it this way.
Speaker 2 (08:56):
Our surroundings shape our values, beliefs, and ways of thinking.
So it makes sense that regularly spending time with intellectuals
acts like continuous brain food, because, as they say, with
smart people, there's always something to discuss, there's always something
to learn from them.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
Okay, I can see that, But sometimes maybe you feel
a bit intimidated, like, wow, these people are way smarter
than me. What can I possibly add? I've definitely felt that,
Oh totally.
Speaker 2 (09:21):
It's a common feeling. Yeah, But our sources actually spend
that positively. They say that feeling, that awareness of maybe
not knowing as much, it has its perks, kerks like
what it compels you to put in the effort to improve.
It's like an implicit challenge. It motivates you to raise
your own game mentally speaking.
Speaker 1 (09:41):
Okay, that's a good reframe. So it's not about feeling inadequate,
but using it as fuel exactly.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
And the point isn't necessarily that your friends have to
be Nobel laureates or anything.
Speaker 1 (09:50):
Right.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
The key is finding people who always have interesting things
to discuss, people who are maybe pay setters in whatever
field they work, people who are curious and growing themselves.
Speaker 1 (10:01):
So it's about the mindset and the conversation, not just
raw intellect.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
Precisely, spending time with them is good for picking up knowledge, sure,
but maybe even more importantly, you start to adopt their
learning style. You see how they approach problems, how they
ask questions, how they think.
Speaker 1 (10:16):
Critically, like learning by osmosis.
Speaker 2 (10:18):
Kind of Yeah, it just naturally encourages you to think differently,
broaden your horizons, and maybe seek out more of those
kinds of stimulating interactions. It makes you think about your
own circle, doesn't it. Are the people around you sparking
your curiosity?
Speaker 1 (10:33):
That's a really good point to reflect on. Okay, so
surround yourself with stimulating people. What's next? It feels like
we're moving towards action.
Speaker 2 (10:40):
We are Habit Number five is very action oriented.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
Do something new, Okay, step outside the comfort zone.
Speaker 2 (10:47):
That's the essence of it. The source material brings up
that old saying practice makes perfect, and it observes that
smart people generally are not unnecessarily scared of failure. Why
not because they seem to grasp this universal truth that
without practice, nothing can be truly learned. So if learning
requires practice, and practice sometimes involves failing or stumbling, well,
(11:10):
then they're up for the challenge.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
That makes sense. The sourcials had some good examples, right.
Speaker 2 (11:15):
Yeah, really clear was like, it's impossible to learn a
new equation if you don't attempt questions on it or
learning guitar. You can't learn if you don't try those
chords yourself. You have to actually do.
Speaker 1 (11:25):
It care hands during exactly.
Speaker 2 (11:27):
Move beyond just theory and that resistance. We feel that
fear of messing up. Smart people learn to push through that.
The sources even say that often outstanding and even spectacular
successes are the results of something that frightened us tremendously.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
Wow. So embracing the fear leads to breakthroughs.
Speaker 2 (11:47):
It often does, and cognitively, stepping out of your comfort
zone is incredibly valuable.
Speaker 3 (11:52):
When you try something new.
Speaker 2 (11:54):
A skill, a hobby, even just a different road home,
your brain has to work differently. It forms new connections, adapts,
it stays plastic.
Speaker 1 (12:02):
Neuroplasticity right, the brain's ability to change exactly.
Speaker 2 (12:06):
Trying new things directly fuels that process, making it easier
to learn other new things down the line. So here's
a challenge for you listening. Think of one new thing
you've been putting off, just one, and commit to taking
the very first step this week.
Speaker 1 (12:19):
I like that small steps into the unknown. Okay, So
you try something new, you learn something, what do you
do with that new knowledge or skill?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
Great question that takes us straight to have at number six,
Apply and share new knowledge.
Speaker 1 (12:33):
Okay, use it or lose it.
Speaker 3 (12:35):
Pretty much.
Speaker 2 (12:36):
The sources put it bluntly, if you don't intend to
use what you learn, there's no use in studying it.
But it's more than just using it for yourself. Smart
people understand that sharing their intellectual resources makes them more valuable.
Speaker 1 (12:50):
How does sharing make them more valuable?
Speaker 2 (12:53):
Well, think about it. Our sources say that sharing new
info or concepts is simply the best technique to reinforce
and comprehend the subject matter, right.
Speaker 1 (13:02):
Like teaching someone else forces you to really understand it
yourself exactly.
Speaker 2 (13:05):
You have to organize your thoughts, figure out the key points,
maybe explain it in different ways. That process solidifies it
in your own mind. Plus, the sources ad when you
discuss it, you learn even more about the work itself,
as well as the lessons other people.
Speaker 1 (13:20):
Have discovered, so you get different perspectives too.
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Absolutely, and it doesn't really matter who you share it with.
It could be family, friends, co workers, people in an
online group. Whatever, the key is the act of sharing
knowledge itself, that's what enriches your understanding and helps you
to draw out more informed conclusions.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
So learning becomes more active, more integrated, not just stuff
store in your head.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Precisely, it creates this powerful feedback loop. You learn, you share,
you understand deeper, you learn more from the sharing. It
makes a whole learning process richer.
Speaker 1 (13:53):
That's a fantastic point. I definitely find explaining things helps
me lock them in. Now we've talked about interacting with
people people and sharing knowledge. What about just watching people?
Speaker 2 (14:03):
Ah, yes, that brings us to happen at number seven
steady other people's behavior patterns.
Speaker 1 (14:08):
Okay, so this isn't just casual people watch it.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
No, it's more analytical. Our sources describe smart people as
being understanding in their own way. They consciously take the
time to consider things like their colleagues' motivation, their perspective
of the project, and the level of help they require.
Speaker 1 (14:24):
So it's about developing social intelligence, empathy.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
Exactly, those things which are crucial for navigating, you know,
complex human situations. Our sources note that trying to truly
understand the situations of people around you actually takes strong
intellectual effort.
Speaker 1 (14:43):
It's not passive, not at all.
Speaker 2 (14:45):
It requires active analysis. Why are they acting this way?
What's their perspective, what might they need? But the payoff,
the sources say, is significant in the long run. It
helps you cultivate better social skills and the ability to
make the right decisions, especially when other people are involve.
Speaker 1 (15:00):
So it's like applying critical thinking to human dynamics.
Speaker 3 (15:03):
That's a great way to put it.
Speaker 2 (15:04):
You're building a more sophisticated understanding of how people tick,
which makes you more effective and insightful in almost any interaction.
It's an ongoing exercise and applied intelligence fascinating.
Speaker 1 (15:15):
It adds a whole different layer to being smart. And
building on that theme of observation, there's habit number eight, right,
which is slightly different.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
Yes, Habit eight is be actively observant. It broadens the
lens from just people's behavior to the environment around you
more generally well. The sources suggests that many of us
watch the world uncritically. We mainly focus on the things
that immediately affect us.
Speaker 1 (15:37):
We filter out a lot we do.
Speaker 2 (15:39):
So this habit is a call to spend a few
minutes every day examining your surroundings critically. The sources challenge
you directly, though you can see everything around you, do
you really pay attention to it.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
Ooh, good question. Probably not as much as I think, right.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
So the idea is to consciously look deeper, examine the normal,
everyday interactions that take place in your environment on a global, interpersonal,
and societal level.
Speaker 1 (16:04):
That sounds broad.
Speaker 2 (16:06):
It is, but it's about cultivating a mindset. The sources
admit it's a useful practice that's a little bit unpopular today,
maybe because we're so inwardly focused or distracted. But they
promise that when you turn your attention outside of yourself
and actively pay attention to details, you'll be surprised.
Speaker 1 (16:22):
By what you discover, what kind of details.
Speaker 2 (16:24):
Nuances, patterns, subtle cues, things most people miss because they're
just not looking closely. This practice sharpens your perception, helps
you connect dots others don't see, and just makes you
more attuned to the world.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
It's like training your brain to.
Speaker 3 (16:37):
Notice more exactly.
Speaker 2 (16:39):
Try for a week, maybe just dedicate five minutes a
day to really looking at your surroundings wherever you are.
Jot down anything surprising or interesting you notice. You might
find it reveals a lot.
Speaker 1 (16:48):
I like that. Become a detective of the every day. Okay,
these first eight habits feel like they really set the
stage for how we engage with information and the world.
But you mentioned earlier that intelligence is just mental.
Speaker 2 (17:01):
Correct, It's deeply connected to our physical well being, which
brings us neatly into our next section, the pillars of
brain health. This covers both physical and mental well being.
Speaker 1 (17:12):
Crucial stuff. Where do we start here?
Speaker 2 (17:14):
Habit number nine exercise frequently. The setches are very direct.
Don't overlook exercise and its effects.
Speaker 3 (17:21):
On our smartness.
Speaker 1 (17:22):
So move your body, boost your brain.
Speaker 2 (17:24):
Essentially, Yes, the emphasize that the brain and body constantly
cooperate together, so naturally, our overall energy and physical health
has a direct impact on the quality of our thoughts.
Speaker 1 (17:35):
It's all connected. I like how the sources put it.
As you grow cognitively, you should also grow physically because
they're intertwined.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
That's the key idea, and they make it accessible too.
It doesn't have to be hardcore training. Sign up for
your local gym, get some running shoes for a few
mile runs, or simply practice yoga or other homeworkouts.
Speaker 3 (17:53):
Anything works. Just move your body.
Speaker 1 (17:55):
More consistency over intensity.
Speaker 2 (17:57):
Maybe absolutely, there are the direct benefits. Better blood float
to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients. Exercise also promotes neurogenesis,
the creation of new brain cells, especially in memory centers
like the hippocampus.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
Wow.
Speaker 3 (18:11):
Okay, And it boosts important.
Speaker 2 (18:12):
Stuff like BDNF brain derive neurotrophic factor, which helps neurons
grow and survive. Think of it like fertilizer for your brain.
Speaker 1 (18:19):
That's a powerful image.
Speaker 2 (18:21):
But beyond the biology, our sources highlight another benefit. Exercise
instills discipline, and that discipline is advantageous for the efficient
growth of positive habits and new information.
Speaker 1 (18:33):
Ah. So the discipline from exercise and carries over exactly.
Speaker 2 (18:38):
Sticking to an exercise routine builds willpower resilience that makes
it easier to stick to learning goals, tackle tough mental tasks,
manage stress better. Your thinking becomes clearer, sharper, more focused.
Speaker 1 (18:51):
So find some movement you enjoy and stick with it.
What pairs naturally with exercise fuel? Right?
Speaker 2 (18:58):
You read my mind? Have at number ten? Prioritize eating healthy.
Speaker 1 (19:03):
Okay, brain food. The sources challenge the simple sugar's brain
fuel idea, didn't they They did?
Speaker 2 (19:09):
While glucose is used by the brain, they argue that
a balanced diet rich with needed vitamins and minerals is
the best fuel you can get to power your thought engine.
It's about quality, balanced fuel, not just a quick sugar hit.
Speaker 1 (19:20):
So what does that optimal diet look like? According to them.
Speaker 2 (19:23):
They detail it pretty well. Enough protein think building blocks
for neurotransmitters, modern amounts of carbohydrates for sustained energy release,
and crucially enough healthy fats, especially things like omega threes,
which are vital for brain structure and cell function.
Speaker 1 (19:37):
Can you give some examples of foods?
Speaker 3 (19:39):
Sure?
Speaker 2 (19:40):
They mentioned whole grains, lean meats, nuts, fish, and dairy products,
basically nutrient dense whole foods. And a key piece of
advice is to eat just enough to be satisfied, not.
Speaker 1 (19:54):
Stuffed right and avoid the junk.
Speaker 3 (19:57):
Definitely.
Speaker 2 (19:57):
They worn against junk foods, saying it'll tire you out
and in the long run can cause some health complications.
It really is like fueling a high performance engine. You
wouldn't put cheap dirty fuel in a Ferrari No, definitely not,
So why do it to your brain? Viewing your diet
is direct fuel for cognition is a powerful mindset shift.
Speaker 1 (20:17):
Treat your brain like the high performance machine. It is. Okay,
so we're exercising, eating well. But even the best machine
needs downtime, right.
Speaker 2 (20:25):
Absolutely critical, which brings us to hap at eleven, takes
short breaks at work or really breaks from focused mental effort.
Speaker 1 (20:32):
Because we're just drowning in information these days.
Speaker 2 (20:34):
Pretty much, the sources say, in this era of total digitalization,
our brains literally burn out from the bombardment of information.
And they make the point that be in touch with
what's happening isn't always.
Speaker 3 (20:45):
A good thing.
Speaker 1 (20:45):
Constant connection isn't always healthy. I feel that right.
Speaker 2 (20:49):
And the consequence of having no pauses, no moments of
mental calmness, is that we begin to think superficially and automatically.
Our thinking gets shallow.
Speaker 1 (20:57):
So it breaks help us think.
Speaker 2 (20:59):
Deeper, yes, and they help us actually absorb information better.
Even a short vacation helps. But on a daily level,
taking micro breaks is key. If you're reading something dense,
for instance, you will assimilate better when you take breaks after.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
A few hours.
Speaker 1 (21:14):
What kind of breaks work best doesn't have to be complicated.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
The sources suggest simple things. A short walk, meditate, exercise,
or do some chores around the house. Just give yourself
a mental timeout, anything to shift years briefly.
Speaker 1 (21:27):
Let the brain reset.
Speaker 2 (21:28):
Exactly, decompress process, then come back refreshed. Scheduling these little
breaks intentionally can make a huge difference in fighting off
cognitive fatigue and boosting overall performance.
Speaker 1 (21:39):
Mental timeouts crucial, and speaking of the ultimate timeout.
Speaker 2 (21:43):
Sleep the ultimate indeed habit number twelve sleep whenever.
Speaker 1 (21:47):
You need to, whenever you need to, not just the
set number of hours.
Speaker 2 (21:50):
That's a key point. While studies show giving our bodies
more downtime helps the brain better memory, attention, and focus,
and that people who consistently shortchange sleep have worse attention levels,
the amount needed varies.
Speaker 1 (22:04):
Okay, so listen to your body, right.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
The societal pressure to burn the candle at both ends
is strong, But sleep isn't a luxury. Our sources frame
it as a powerful cognitive tool.
Speaker 1 (22:15):
What's actually happening in the brain during sleep, lot The
brain processes information from the previous day.
Speaker 2 (22:21):
As you sleep, it's consolidating memories, strengthening important connections, basically
filing away the day's learning.
Speaker 1 (22:28):
And cleaning up too. I read something about that.
Speaker 2 (22:30):
Yes, crucially, sleep helps remove waste products like those amyloid
and TAUL proteins linked to black formation in Alzheimer's disease.
The brain's glymphatic system is like a cleanup crew that
works mainly during sleep.
Speaker 1 (22:42):
Wow, so skipping sleep literally leaves junk in your brain.
Speaker 3 (22:46):
That's the risk.
Speaker 2 (22:47):
Yes, So while there's no set length of time that
everyone should sleep, the absolute priority should be to rest
whenever your body needs it.
Speaker 3 (22:56):
Prioritize it.
Speaker 2 (22:57):
It's non negotiable for brain health and peak smartness.
Speaker 1 (23:01):
It really reframes sleep as an active investment in your brain. Okay,
these well being habits exercise, diet breaks, sleep extability. They
feel like the essential maintenance package. What's next optimizing our
environment exactly?
Speaker 2 (23:14):
Moving into how we structure our mental and physical spaces
to support thinking better. Habit thirteen is keeping.
Speaker 1 (23:21):
A diary journaling. How does that boost brain power?
Speaker 2 (23:24):
Well, our sources site studies showing that even just a
few minutes spent reflecting on the events and thoughts of
the day and writing increases brain power. Plus, they add
nothing motivates and helps you become smarter, like personal experience
in your own achievements, which you often process through writing.
Speaker 1 (23:39):
Okay, so it's reflective just taking a few minutes each
evening to write down your thoughts events and insights.
Speaker 2 (23:44):
That's the basic practice, but it does more than just
record stuff.
Speaker 3 (23:48):
When you write things down, you'll have.
Speaker 2 (23:50):
The opportunity to analyze the ideas that come to you,
thoughts and questions that arise.
Speaker 3 (23:55):
You're actively engaging with your own.
Speaker 2 (23:57):
Thinking, making sense of it all right, And there's another layer.
Writing frequently makes you smarter overall by expanding your language
and communication skills. How So, because keeping a diary is
a language practice activity, you're constantly working with words, structuring sentences,
finding the right terms. This helps you learn new terms,
and expanding your vocabulary will raise your IQ.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Interesting. So it's mental processing and language practice exactly.
Speaker 2 (24:23):
It sharpens both your thinking and your ability to articulate
those thoughts, a double win.
Speaker 1 (24:29):
That's really compelling. Okay, from organizing thoughts on paper to
organizing stuff, what's habit fourteen.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Habit fourteen is learn how to be organized, and the
sources are pretty clear. People that have a habit of
making things orderly tend to be smart. This goes for
both physical spaces and our digital lives.
Speaker 1 (24:46):
Ah the messy desk debate, So clutter is bad for thinking?
Speaker 2 (24:50):
According to these sources. Yes, think about the typical chaos,
disorganized objects, frequent message alerts, and clutter on a desktop
and in work folders. All that's diverts the mind from
tasks and lower productivity. It's distracting, highly distracting, and the
cognitive link is direct. Your mind will function more effectively
the less disorder there is in an area where you
(25:11):
live and work. Less clutter means less cognitive load. Your
brain isn't wasting energy processing background noise.
Speaker 1 (25:18):
So tidying up actually frees up brain power.
Speaker 2 (25:21):
That's the idea. The sources offer simple tips. Develop the
habit of putting things way right away, Create multiple themed
folders on your desktop and avoid saving individual papers. There
basic organization.
Speaker 1 (25:32):
Makes sense, less external chaos, more internal clarity. Tri tackling
one cluttered area and see how it feels good advice Okay,
almost there. Habit fifteen.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
Habit fifteen is be selective of what you put your
effort into.
Speaker 1 (25:45):
Selective effort. What does that mean exactly?
Speaker 2 (25:48):
Well, the sources start with relationships. They note that smart
people often tend to have few friends, but they make
up for the lack of numbers with deep and genuine friendships.
Speaker 3 (25:57):
Quality over quantity.
Speaker 1 (25:59):
Okay, it's broader than just friendships.
Speaker 3 (26:01):
Much broader.
Speaker 2 (26:02):
It extends to how you manage your attention and energy
in general. The people you spend time with, the sources say,
reflect your personal identity and needs guiding you toward understanding yourself.
Speaker 3 (26:13):
But beyond that, it's about.
Speaker 1 (26:15):
Focus, focusing your mental energy exactly.
Speaker 2 (26:18):
When you're careful of what you give your attention to,
you'll be able to work optimally without unnecessary distractions. Smart people,
they find find it easy to get their priorities in order,
maybe using a mental checklist, which is being clear on
what matters.
Speaker 1 (26:31):
Most, so it's easier to tackle things one by one, right.
Speaker 2 (26:35):
Far easier to follow the next agenda on your list
than to juggle every plan you have at once. It's
about strategic allocation of your mental resources, knowing what to
say yes to and just as importantly, what to say
no to, in order to protect your focus for what
truly contributes to your growth.
Speaker 1 (26:51):
That's a really powerful concept, intentional focus. Okay, we made
it to the bonus round Habit sixteen, Yes.
Speaker 3 (26:58):
The final one one.
Speaker 2 (27:00):
Playing games that task the mind.
Speaker 1 (27:02):
Ah, brain games.
Speaker 2 (27:04):
Exactly highlighted as a particularly beneficial way to spend your time,
but specifically games that force you to think creatively, utilize
your imagination, and solve constantly evolving problems.
Speaker 1 (27:17):
So things like crosswords or sudoku, as the sources mentioned, those.
Speaker 3 (27:21):
Are great examples.
Speaker 2 (27:22):
Yeah, and they point out these games don't have an
age limit fun for everyone.
Speaker 3 (27:26):
It's about making mental workouts enjoyable.
Speaker 1 (27:28):
How do they actually help? Cognitively speaking?
Speaker 2 (27:31):
They actively hone your mental faculties while bringing you to
light and happiness. It's the tasking the mind part that's key.
The sources site research from twenty nineteen finding that people
who regularly played these kinds of thinking games performed better
cognitively than those who didn't.
Speaker 1 (27:46):
So there's actual evidence for it.
Speaker 2 (27:47):
Yeah, these games aren't just time fillers. They're training. They
improve specific skills, problem solving, memory, critical thinking, creativity, all
while you're just having fun. It turns leisure time into
a cognitive growth opportunity.
Speaker 1 (28:02):
Play You're way smarter. I love it. Okay. Wow. Sixteen
habits from asking questions and reading to sleep, organization focus,
even playing games. It's quite a list, it is, But
the core message running through it all seems really clear. Now,
intelligence isn't this fixed thing you're just dealt it's dynamic.
It's like a muscle exactly.
Speaker 2 (28:23):
It can be strengthened, protected, expanded. It all comes down
to conscious, consistent habits. It's really not about being born smart,
it's about living smart.
Speaker 1 (28:32):
And the sources mentioned something about these habits becoming automatic
over time, requiring minimal consciousness.
Speaker 2 (28:38):
Right, that's the beauty of habits. Once they're ingrained, they
become part of your routine. They contribute to your growth
without requiring constant, draining effort. And they don't just work
in isolation, do.
Speaker 1 (28:47):
They No, you can see how they connect, Like being
observant feeds your questions, which drives reading, which gives you
knowledge to share.
Speaker 2 (28:54):
And all of that works better when your brain is rested,
fueled properly, and you're physically active.
Speaker 3 (28:59):
They center.
Speaker 2 (28:59):
To guys, the combined effect is way more powerful than
just adding up the individual habits.
Speaker 1 (29:05):
It's a whole system for growth, a holistic approach. So
for everyone listening, having gone through all sixteen, maybe think
about this. If you had to pick just one habit
from this step dive, just one thing to start implementing,
even in a small way, starting today, which one would
it be? Why that one?
Speaker 2 (29:24):
That's a great practical takeaway, or maybe think of it bigger.
How do you see these habits connecting for you? How
could they work together to create that compounding effect making
you not just a little smarter here or there, but
fundamentally more capable, more resilient overall.
Speaker 1 (29:40):
That's the real potential here, isn't it that fundamental shift. Well,
this has been fascinating. We really hope this deep dive
encourages you to stay curious, embrace that joy of learning,
and keep exploring the amazing world of knowledge every single day.
Okay, so let's really think about this. What do you
believe truly sets you know, genuinely smart people apart. Is
it just something they're born with, like they just got lucky,
or is there maybe something more going on, something you
can actually like work on and grow.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
That's a great question to start with, because, yeah, for ages,
I think many of us got into that idea that
intelligence is fixed.
Speaker 3 (00:23):
You've either got it or you don't.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
Right, you look at these you know, brilliant entrepreneurs or scientists,
amazing writers, and you just kind of assume, Wow, they're
just built different exactly.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
But what if that whole way of thinking is actually
you know, holding us back. Yeah, what if it's stopping
us from tapping into our own potential?
Speaker 1 (00:39):
Ah? Okay, So that's where our source material comes in
for the steep dive.
Speaker 3 (00:42):
Precisely.
Speaker 2 (00:43):
It takes that old idea of static intelligence and just
well it challenges it head on. It argues pretty emphatically
that intelligence isn't some set attribute at all.
Speaker 1 (00:53):
Okay, so what is it? Then?
Speaker 2 (00:54):
It's presented more as a flexible kind of evolving ability,
something you can seriously improve based on how you learn,
how you stimulate your brain, how you live your life
day to day.
Speaker 1 (01:07):
So it's not just about having a high IQ from
the start.
Speaker 3 (01:10):
Not primarily.
Speaker 2 (01:11):
No, what really smart people seem to consistently show isn't
just innate talent, but this.
Speaker 3 (01:20):
Deep dedication, a.
Speaker 2 (01:22):
Commitment to specific lifestyle habits, habits that actively support and
protect their mental health, their cognitive function.
Speaker 1 (01:29):
Okay, so it's more of a continuous journey cultivating it.
Speaker 3 (01:32):
That's it exactly.
Speaker 2 (01:33):
It's cultivation, not a fixed destination.
Speaker 1 (01:35):
And that sounds like the mission for today's deep dive.
Then we're going to unpack what sixteen specific habits.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Sixteen Yeah, and these aren't just vague ideas. They're actionable, practical,
daily things, habits that our sources suggest, top entrepreneurs and
academics often share.
Speaker 1 (01:48):
And the goal is to show you, the listener, how
these habits can help you actually cultivate your own intelligence,
become demonstrably smarter every single day.
Speaker 2 (01:56):
Right, we're not just listing them, We're digging into why
they work, what's the mechanism behind them, and really importantly,
how you can actually start integrating them into your own life,
make them stick, making.
Speaker 1 (02:08):
That shift, like you said, from just accepting where you
are mentally to actively intentionally growing.
Speaker 3 (02:15):
Exactly empowering you.
Speaker 2 (02:17):
These aren't just nice suggestions, they're like the building blocks
for a sharper, more agile mind.
Speaker 1 (02:22):
Okay, I'm ready, let's dive in. Where do we start.
What's the foundation?
Speaker 2 (02:26):
Well, the foundation appropriately is all about fueling that curiosity
and building mental agility. Makes sense, And the very first
habit our sources spotlight is well, it sounds simple, but
it's huge ask questions.
Speaker 1 (02:39):
Uh.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
I know the German philosopher Hans Cord Gattimer, he had
this famous quote, knowledge can only be with those who
have questions, And that really just nails the essence of learning,
doesn't it.
Speaker 1 (02:49):
It really does. It makes me think about kids. You know,
they're endless why questions? Why is the sky blue? Why
do cats meow? All that stuff?
Speaker 2 (02:57):
Yeah, they're natural explorers totally.
Speaker 1 (03:01):
But then as adults we kind of lose that. We
get hesitant. Maybe we're afraid of looking stupid if we
ask something basic.
Speaker 2 (03:08):
That's a huge point our sources make. That fear of
looking stupid. It actively stops people from seeking understanding.
Speaker 1 (03:15):
When really learning requires asking questions. It's not just part
of it, it's like the engine.
Speaker 2 (03:21):
Absolutely Gatamer's point is that asking isn't a sign of ignorance,
it's the start of knowing. It's active engagement. You're not
just passively receiving stuff, You're poking at it, digging deeper.
Speaker 1 (03:33):
So it's not just asking other people, but asking yourself too, yes, and.
Speaker 2 (03:36):
Then taking the initiative to find the answers yourself.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
Our sources suggest this specifically, instead of defaulting to say,
watching TV or scrolling social media.
Speaker 1 (03:45):
Which is easy to do, so easy.
Speaker 2 (03:47):
Instead dedicate some time to actively research things online or
in books, things you're curious about, things you feel you
don't quite get. Our sources call this practice easy but
time consuming, but they stress it can considerably increase your
intelligence because it's a mindset shift.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
From consumer to seeker exactly.
Speaker 2 (04:05):
From passive consumption to active investigation. And that applies everywhere
personal interests, work challenges, even figuring out why your toast
burned this morning. It's about investigating, not just assuming.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
I like that frame, A shift from assumption to investigation. Yeah,
that feels really foundational. So from asking where do we
go next? How we take information.
Speaker 2 (04:26):
In precisely, which leads us right into habit number two.
Read across genres.
Speaker 1 (04:32):
Okay, reading makes sense.
Speaker 2 (04:33):
Our sources literally describe reading as the mental exercise your
brain needs to be in tip top shape.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Which is kind of funny when you think about it.
We have access to almost everything ever written right on
our phones, tablets, whatever, libraries in our pockets.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
It's incredible access.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
And yet how often do we end up just, you know,
scrolling watching cat videos. Guilty is charged.
Speaker 2 (04:54):
Sometimes, oh absolutely, we all do it. And look, sometimes
you need that downtime, That mindless scrolling can be a
way to unwind. Our sources even acknowledge it's not realistic
or healthy to use all of your free time doing this. Okay,
fair enough, But the key point is your brain needs
more than just that passive, superficial stuff. Consistent reading does
more than just keep you informed.
Speaker 1 (05:15):
What else does it do?
Speaker 2 (05:16):
It actually helps teach your brain to function well. It
trains it to continuously learn new things. The sources recommend
focusing on things like books, instructional periodicals, and link the
articles and websites.
Speaker 1 (05:29):
Stuff that requires a bit more.
Speaker 2 (05:30):
Focus exactly, things that demand sustained attention, deeper processing, and
the real power isn't necessarily reading more and piece every week.
Speaker 1 (05:39):
It's consistency, even just a little bit each day.
Speaker 2 (05:42):
Yeah, our sources say, even just reading a portion of
a chapter each day adds up over time.
Speaker 3 (05:47):
Your intellect will grow.
Speaker 2 (05:48):
Because you're not just passively absorbing facts. You're training your brain,
training it to analyze, synthesize, evaluate, connect ideas.
Speaker 1 (05:57):
So it's like weightlifting for the brain.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
That's a perfect analogy. It's actively working those cognitive muscles.
It's a conscious choice. Maybe swap fifteen minutes of scrolling
for fifteen minutes of reading something substantial. The benefits really
do compound.
Speaker 1 (06:11):
Okay, that feels like a manageable challenge. Pick up a
book instead of the phone. I know the feeling afterwards
is different. And speaking of processing things deeply, that leads
nicely into the next habit, right number three, Take time
to think.
Speaker 2 (06:26):
Yes, absolutely crucial, especially now we're constantly bombarded with information
right totally.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
Information overload is real, and our.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
Sources point out that because of this, we are all
easily distracted from one thing to another, not properly understanding
the true essence of the information received.
Speaker 1 (06:43):
We just skim the surface exactly.
Speaker 2 (06:45):
So this habit is about consciously taking pauses to reflect
on what you've learned. It's described as highly beneficial and
just an important part of the learning process.
Speaker 1 (06:55):
It sounds so simple, just pausing, but we rarely do it.
Speaker 3 (06:58):
We don't.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
We're conditioned for speed, for immediate reaction. But that pause,
that reflection time, is where the magic happens. Our sources
explain that when you pause.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
You create space, space for what.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
Space to consider, all the factors that might directly or
indirectly have a connection to whatever you're dealing with. It
lets you plan three to five steps ahead, so you're
less likely to be, as they say, caught lacking.
Speaker 1 (07:23):
Okay, so it's not just about learning, but about planning
and strategy too.
Speaker 2 (07:27):
Definitely, and it applies to conversations as well. The sources
make this interesting point. Smart people listen more and talk less,
and they manage to get a lot done with fewer words.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
Why is that.
Speaker 2 (07:39):
It's not about being shy. It's because they're listening as active.
They're processing, reflecting, analyzing while listening before formulating a response,
not just jumping in.
Speaker 1 (07:48):
So less reactive, more thoughtful.
Speaker 2 (07:50):
Precisely, so, the idea is to consciously build in these
reflection breaks after a meeting, after reading something complex even
just during a busy patch in your daywtes.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
What does that achieve in the moment?
Speaker 2 (08:02):
Deeper understanding, better memory consolidation, more intelligent decision making. It's
the difference between just, you know, encountering information and truly
integrating it.
Speaker 1 (08:12):
It's like letting the information settle and sync in deliberately
slowing down in a fast world.
Speaker 3 (08:18):
You got it.
Speaker 2 (08:19):
And when you've done that pausing and processing, you're naturally
better prepared to engage with the world around you more effectively.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
Which seems like a perfect transition to our next section,
looking at how our environment and experiences shape our intelligence.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Exactly, moving beyond purely internal habits to how we interact
with the external world. And this is where things get
really interesting.
Speaker 1 (08:41):
Okay, what's the first habit here?
Speaker 2 (08:42):
Habit number four is potentially quite impactful. Hang out with
smart people.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
Ah, you are the average of the five people you
spend the most time with.
Speaker 2 (08:53):
Idea sort of yeah.
Speaker 1 (08:55):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (08:55):
Our sources put it this way.
Speaker 2 (08:56):
Our surroundings shape our values, beliefs, and ways of thinking.
So it makes sense that regularly spending time with intellectuals
acts like continuous brain food, because, as they say, with
smart people, there's always something to discuss, there's always something
to learn from them.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
Okay, I can see that, But sometimes maybe you feel
a bit intimidated, like, wow, these people are way smarter
than me. What can I possibly add? I've definitely felt that,
Oh totally.
Speaker 2 (09:21):
It's a common feeling. Yeah, But our sources actually spend
that positively. They say that feeling, that awareness of maybe
not knowing as much, it has its perks, kerks like
what it compels you to put in the effort to improve.
It's like an implicit challenge. It motivates you to raise
your own game mentally speaking.
Speaker 1 (09:41):
Okay, that's a good reframe. So it's not about feeling inadequate,
but using it as fuel exactly.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
And the point isn't necessarily that your friends have to
be Nobel laureates or anything.
Speaker 1 (09:50):
Right.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
The key is finding people who always have interesting things
to discuss, people who are maybe pay setters in whatever
field they work, people who are curious and growing themselves.
Speaker 1 (10:01):
So it's about the mindset and the conversation, not just
raw intellect.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
Precisely, spending time with them is good for picking up knowledge, sure,
but maybe even more importantly, you start to adopt their
learning style. You see how they approach problems, how they
ask questions, how they think.
Speaker 1 (10:16):
Critically, like learning by osmosis.
Speaker 2 (10:18):
Kind of Yeah, it just naturally encourages you to think differently,
broaden your horizons, and maybe seek out more of those
kinds of stimulating interactions. It makes you think about your
own circle, doesn't it. Are the people around you sparking
your curiosity?
Speaker 1 (10:33):
That's a really good point to reflect on. Okay, so
surround yourself with stimulating people. What's next? It feels like
we're moving towards action.
Speaker 2 (10:40):
We are Habit Number five is very action oriented.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
Do something new, Okay, step outside the comfort zone.
Speaker 2 (10:47):
That's the essence of it. The source material brings up
that old saying practice makes perfect, and it observes that
smart people generally are not unnecessarily scared of failure. Why
not because they seem to grasp this universal truth that
without practice, nothing can be truly learned. So if learning
requires practice, and practice sometimes involves failing or stumbling, well,
(11:10):
then they're up for the challenge.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
That makes sense. The sourcials had some good examples, right.
Speaker 2 (11:15):
Yeah, really clear was like, it's impossible to learn a
new equation if you don't attempt questions on it or
learning guitar. You can't learn if you don't try those
chords yourself. You have to actually do.
Speaker 1 (11:25):
It care hands during exactly.
Speaker 2 (11:27):
Move beyond just theory and that resistance. We feel that
fear of messing up. Smart people learn to push through that.
The sources even say that often outstanding and even spectacular
successes are the results of something that frightened us tremendously.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
Wow. So embracing the fear leads to breakthroughs.
Speaker 2 (11:47):
It often does, and cognitively, stepping out of your comfort
zone is incredibly valuable.
Speaker 3 (11:52):
When you try something new.
Speaker 2 (11:54):
A skill, a hobby, even just a different road home,
your brain has to work differently. It forms new connections, adapts,
it stays plastic.
Speaker 1 (12:02):
Neuroplasticity right, the brain's ability to change exactly.
Speaker 2 (12:06):
Trying new things directly fuels that process, making it easier
to learn other new things down the line. So here's
a challenge for you listening. Think of one new thing
you've been putting off, just one, and commit to taking
the very first step this week.
Speaker 1 (12:19):
I like that small steps into the unknown. Okay, So
you try something new, you learn something, what do you
do with that new knowledge or skill?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
Great question that takes us straight to have at number six,
Apply and share new knowledge.
Speaker 1 (12:33):
Okay, use it or lose it.
Speaker 3 (12:35):
Pretty much.
Speaker 2 (12:36):
The sources put it bluntly, if you don't intend to
use what you learn, there's no use in studying it.
But it's more than just using it for yourself. Smart
people understand that sharing their intellectual resources makes them more valuable.
Speaker 1 (12:50):
How does sharing make them more valuable?
Speaker 2 (12:53):
Well, think about it. Our sources say that sharing new
info or concepts is simply the best technique to reinforce
and comprehend the subject matter, right.
Speaker 1 (13:02):
Like teaching someone else forces you to really understand it
yourself exactly.
Speaker 2 (13:05):
You have to organize your thoughts, figure out the key points,
maybe explain it in different ways. That process solidifies it
in your own mind. Plus, the sources ad when you
discuss it, you learn even more about the work itself,
as well as the lessons other people.
Speaker 1 (13:20):
Have discovered, so you get different perspectives too.
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Absolutely, and it doesn't really matter who you share it with.
It could be family, friends, co workers, people in an
online group. Whatever, the key is the act of sharing
knowledge itself, that's what enriches your understanding and helps you
to draw out more informed conclusions.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
So learning becomes more active, more integrated, not just stuff
store in your head.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Precisely, it creates this powerful feedback loop. You learn, you share,
you understand deeper, you learn more from the sharing. It
makes a whole learning process richer.
Speaker 1 (13:53):
That's a fantastic point. I definitely find explaining things helps
me lock them in. Now we've talked about interacting with
people people and sharing knowledge. What about just watching people?
Speaker 2 (14:03):
Ah, yes, that brings us to happen at number seven
steady other people's behavior patterns.
Speaker 1 (14:08):
Okay, so this isn't just casual people watch it.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
No, it's more analytical. Our sources describe smart people as
being understanding in their own way. They consciously take the
time to consider things like their colleagues' motivation, their perspective
of the project, and the level of help they require.
Speaker 1 (14:24):
So it's about developing social intelligence, empathy.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
Exactly, those things which are crucial for navigating, you know,
complex human situations. Our sources note that trying to truly
understand the situations of people around you actually takes strong
intellectual effort.
Speaker 1 (14:43):
It's not passive, not at all.
Speaker 2 (14:45):
It requires active analysis. Why are they acting this way?
What's their perspective, what might they need? But the payoff,
the sources say, is significant in the long run. It
helps you cultivate better social skills and the ability to
make the right decisions, especially when other people are involve.
Speaker 1 (15:00):
So it's like applying critical thinking to human dynamics.
Speaker 3 (15:03):
That's a great way to put it.
Speaker 2 (15:04):
You're building a more sophisticated understanding of how people tick,
which makes you more effective and insightful in almost any interaction.
It's an ongoing exercise and applied intelligence fascinating.
Speaker 1 (15:15):
It adds a whole different layer to being smart. And
building on that theme of observation, there's habit number eight, right,
which is slightly different.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
Yes, Habit eight is be actively observant. It broadens the
lens from just people's behavior to the environment around you
more generally well. The sources suggests that many of us
watch the world uncritically. We mainly focus on the things
that immediately affect us.
Speaker 1 (15:37):
We filter out a lot we do.
Speaker 2 (15:39):
So this habit is a call to spend a few
minutes every day examining your surroundings critically. The sources challenge
you directly, though you can see everything around you, do
you really pay attention to it.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
Ooh, good question. Probably not as much as I think, right.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
So the idea is to consciously look deeper, examine the normal,
everyday interactions that take place in your environment on a global, interpersonal,
and societal level.
Speaker 1 (16:04):
That sounds broad.
Speaker 2 (16:06):
It is, but it's about cultivating a mindset. The sources
admit it's a useful practice that's a little bit unpopular today,
maybe because we're so inwardly focused or distracted. But they
promise that when you turn your attention outside of yourself
and actively pay attention to details, you'll be surprised.
Speaker 1 (16:22):
By what you discover, what kind of details.
Speaker 2 (16:24):
Nuances, patterns, subtle cues, things most people miss because they're
just not looking closely. This practice sharpens your perception, helps
you connect dots others don't see, and just makes you
more attuned to the world.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
It's like training your brain to.
Speaker 3 (16:37):
Notice more exactly.
Speaker 2 (16:39):
Try for a week, maybe just dedicate five minutes a
day to really looking at your surroundings wherever you are.
Jot down anything surprising or interesting you notice. You might
find it reveals a lot.
Speaker 1 (16:48):
I like that. Become a detective of the every day. Okay,
these first eight habits feel like they really set the
stage for how we engage with information and the world.
But you mentioned earlier that intelligence is just mental.
Speaker 2 (17:01):
Correct, It's deeply connected to our physical well being, which
brings us neatly into our next section, the pillars of
brain health. This covers both physical and mental well being.
Speaker 1 (17:12):
Crucial stuff. Where do we start here?
Speaker 2 (17:14):
Habit number nine exercise frequently. The setches are very direct.
Don't overlook exercise and its effects.
Speaker 3 (17:21):
On our smartness.
Speaker 1 (17:22):
So move your body, boost your brain.
Speaker 2 (17:24):
Essentially, Yes, the emphasize that the brain and body constantly
cooperate together, so naturally, our overall energy and physical health
has a direct impact on the quality of our thoughts.
Speaker 1 (17:35):
It's all connected. I like how the sources put it.
As you grow cognitively, you should also grow physically because
they're intertwined.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
That's the key idea, and they make it accessible too.
It doesn't have to be hardcore training. Sign up for
your local gym, get some running shoes for a few
mile runs, or simply practice yoga or other homeworkouts.
Speaker 3 (17:53):
Anything works. Just move your body.
Speaker 1 (17:55):
More consistency over intensity.
Speaker 2 (17:57):
Maybe absolutely, there are the direct benefits. Better blood float
to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients. Exercise also promotes neurogenesis,
the creation of new brain cells, especially in memory centers
like the hippocampus.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
Wow.
Speaker 3 (18:11):
Okay, And it boosts important.
Speaker 2 (18:12):
Stuff like BDNF brain derive neurotrophic factor, which helps neurons
grow and survive. Think of it like fertilizer for your brain.
Speaker 1 (18:19):
That's a powerful image.
Speaker 2 (18:21):
But beyond the biology, our sources highlight another benefit. Exercise
instills discipline, and that discipline is advantageous for the efficient
growth of positive habits and new information.
Speaker 1 (18:33):
Ah. So the discipline from exercise and carries over exactly.
Speaker 2 (18:38):
Sticking to an exercise routine builds willpower resilience that makes
it easier to stick to learning goals, tackle tough mental tasks,
manage stress better. Your thinking becomes clearer, sharper, more focused.
Speaker 1 (18:51):
So find some movement you enjoy and stick with it.
What pairs naturally with exercise fuel? Right?
Speaker 2 (18:58):
You read my mind? Have at number ten? Prioritize eating healthy.
Speaker 1 (19:03):
Okay, brain food. The sources challenge the simple sugar's brain
fuel idea, didn't they They did?
Speaker 2 (19:09):
While glucose is used by the brain, they argue that
a balanced diet rich with needed vitamins and minerals is
the best fuel you can get to power your thought engine.
It's about quality, balanced fuel, not just a quick sugar hit.
Speaker 1 (19:20):
So what does that optimal diet look like? According to them.
Speaker 2 (19:23):
They detail it pretty well. Enough protein think building blocks
for neurotransmitters, modern amounts of carbohydrates for sustained energy release,
and crucially enough healthy fats, especially things like omega threes,
which are vital for brain structure and cell function.
Speaker 1 (19:37):
Can you give some examples of foods?
Speaker 3 (19:39):
Sure?
Speaker 2 (19:40):
They mentioned whole grains, lean meats, nuts, fish, and dairy products,
basically nutrient dense whole foods. And a key piece of
advice is to eat just enough to be satisfied, not.
Speaker 1 (19:54):
Stuffed right and avoid the junk.
Speaker 3 (19:57):
Definitely.
Speaker 2 (19:57):
They worn against junk foods, saying it'll tire you out
and in the long run can cause some health complications.
It really is like fueling a high performance engine. You
wouldn't put cheap dirty fuel in a Ferrari No, definitely not,
So why do it to your brain? Viewing your diet
is direct fuel for cognition is a powerful mindset shift.
Speaker 1 (20:17):
Treat your brain like the high performance machine. It is. Okay,
so we're exercising, eating well. But even the best machine
needs downtime, right.
Speaker 2 (20:25):
Absolutely critical, which brings us to hap at eleven, takes
short breaks at work or really breaks from focused mental effort.
Speaker 1 (20:32):
Because we're just drowning in information these days.
Speaker 2 (20:34):
Pretty much, the sources say, in this era of total digitalization,
our brains literally burn out from the bombardment of information.
And they make the point that be in touch with
what's happening isn't always.
Speaker 3 (20:45):
A good thing.
Speaker 1 (20:45):
Constant connection isn't always healthy. I feel that right.
Speaker 2 (20:49):
And the consequence of having no pauses, no moments of
mental calmness, is that we begin to think superficially and automatically.
Our thinking gets shallow.
Speaker 1 (20:57):
So it breaks help us think.
Speaker 2 (20:59):
Deeper, yes, and they help us actually absorb information better.
Even a short vacation helps. But on a daily level,
taking micro breaks is key. If you're reading something dense,
for instance, you will assimilate better when you take breaks after.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
A few hours.
Speaker 1 (21:14):
What kind of breaks work best doesn't have to be complicated.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
The sources suggest simple things. A short walk, meditate, exercise,
or do some chores around the house. Just give yourself
a mental timeout, anything to shift years briefly.
Speaker 1 (21:27):
Let the brain reset.
Speaker 2 (21:28):
Exactly, decompress process, then come back refreshed. Scheduling these little
breaks intentionally can make a huge difference in fighting off
cognitive fatigue and boosting overall performance.
Speaker 1 (21:39):
Mental timeouts crucial, and speaking of the ultimate timeout.
Speaker 2 (21:43):
Sleep the ultimate indeed habit number twelve sleep whenever.
Speaker 1 (21:47):
You need to, whenever you need to, not just the
set number of hours.
Speaker 2 (21:50):
That's a key point. While studies show giving our bodies
more downtime helps the brain better memory, attention, and focus,
and that people who consistently shortchange sleep have worse attention levels,
the amount needed varies.
Speaker 1 (22:04):
Okay, so listen to your body, right.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
The societal pressure to burn the candle at both ends
is strong, But sleep isn't a luxury. Our sources frame
it as a powerful cognitive tool.
Speaker 1 (22:15):
What's actually happening in the brain during sleep, lot The
brain processes information from the previous day.
Speaker 2 (22:21):
As you sleep, it's consolidating memories, strengthening important connections, basically
filing away the day's learning.
Speaker 1 (22:28):
And cleaning up too. I read something about that.
Speaker 2 (22:30):
Yes, crucially, sleep helps remove waste products like those amyloid
and TAUL proteins linked to black formation in Alzheimer's disease.
The brain's glymphatic system is like a cleanup crew that
works mainly during sleep.
Speaker 1 (22:42):
Wow, so skipping sleep literally leaves junk in your brain.
Speaker 3 (22:46):
That's the risk.
Speaker 2 (22:47):
Yes, So while there's no set length of time that
everyone should sleep, the absolute priority should be to rest
whenever your body needs it.
Speaker 3 (22:56):
Prioritize it.
Speaker 2 (22:57):
It's non negotiable for brain health and peak smartness.
Speaker 1 (23:01):
It really reframes sleep as an active investment in your brain. Okay,
these well being habits exercise, diet breaks, sleep extability. They
feel like the essential maintenance package. What's next optimizing our
environment exactly?
Speaker 2 (23:14):
Moving into how we structure our mental and physical spaces
to support thinking better. Habit thirteen is keeping.
Speaker 1 (23:21):
A diary journaling. How does that boost brain power?
Speaker 2 (23:24):
Well, our sources site studies showing that even just a
few minutes spent reflecting on the events and thoughts of
the day and writing increases brain power. Plus, they add
nothing motivates and helps you become smarter, like personal experience
in your own achievements, which you often process through writing.
Speaker 1 (23:39):
Okay, so it's reflective just taking a few minutes each
evening to write down your thoughts events and insights.
Speaker 2 (23:44):
That's the basic practice, but it does more than just
record stuff.
Speaker 3 (23:48):
When you write things down, you'll have.
Speaker 2 (23:50):
The opportunity to analyze the ideas that come to you,
thoughts and questions that arise.
Speaker 3 (23:55):
You're actively engaging with your own.
Speaker 2 (23:57):
Thinking, making sense of it all right, And there's another layer.
Writing frequently makes you smarter overall by expanding your language
and communication skills. How So, because keeping a diary is
a language practice activity, you're constantly working with words, structuring sentences,
finding the right terms. This helps you learn new terms,
and expanding your vocabulary will raise your IQ.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Interesting. So it's mental processing and language practice exactly.
Speaker 2 (24:23):
It sharpens both your thinking and your ability to articulate
those thoughts, a double win.
Speaker 1 (24:29):
That's really compelling. Okay, from organizing thoughts on paper to
organizing stuff, what's habit fourteen.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Habit fourteen is learn how to be organized, and the
sources are pretty clear. People that have a habit of
making things orderly tend to be smart. This goes for
both physical spaces and our digital lives.
Speaker 1 (24:46):
Ah the messy desk debate, So clutter is bad for thinking?
Speaker 2 (24:50):
According to these sources. Yes, think about the typical chaos,
disorganized objects, frequent message alerts, and clutter on a desktop
and in work folders. All that's diverts the mind from
tasks and lower productivity. It's distracting, highly distracting, and the
cognitive link is direct. Your mind will function more effectively
the less disorder there is in an area where you
(25:11):
live and work. Less clutter means less cognitive load. Your
brain isn't wasting energy processing background noise.
Speaker 1 (25:18):
So tidying up actually frees up brain power.
Speaker 2 (25:21):
That's the idea. The sources offer simple tips. Develop the
habit of putting things way right away, Create multiple themed
folders on your desktop and avoid saving individual papers. There
basic organization.
Speaker 1 (25:32):
Makes sense, less external chaos, more internal clarity. Tri tackling
one cluttered area and see how it feels good advice Okay,
almost there. Habit fifteen.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
Habit fifteen is be selective of what you put your
effort into.
Speaker 1 (25:45):
Selective effort. What does that mean exactly?
Speaker 2 (25:48):
Well, the sources start with relationships. They note that smart
people often tend to have few friends, but they make
up for the lack of numbers with deep and genuine friendships.
Speaker 3 (25:57):
Quality over quantity.
Speaker 1 (25:59):
Okay, it's broader than just friendships.
Speaker 3 (26:01):
Much broader.
Speaker 2 (26:02):
It extends to how you manage your attention and energy
in general. The people you spend time with, the sources say,
reflect your personal identity and needs guiding you toward understanding yourself.
Speaker 3 (26:13):
But beyond that, it's about.
Speaker 1 (26:15):
Focus, focusing your mental energy exactly.
Speaker 2 (26:18):
When you're careful of what you give your attention to,
you'll be able to work optimally without unnecessary distractions. Smart people,
they find find it easy to get their priorities in order,
maybe using a mental checklist, which is being clear on
what matters.
Speaker 1 (26:31):
Most, so it's easier to tackle things one by one, right.
Speaker 2 (26:35):
Far easier to follow the next agenda on your list
than to juggle every plan you have at once. It's
about strategic allocation of your mental resources, knowing what to
say yes to and just as importantly, what to say
no to, in order to protect your focus for what
truly contributes to your growth.
Speaker 1 (26:51):
That's a really powerful concept, intentional focus. Okay, we made
it to the bonus round Habit sixteen, Yes.
Speaker 3 (26:58):
The final one one.
Speaker 2 (27:00):
Playing games that task the mind.
Speaker 1 (27:02):
Ah, brain games.
Speaker 2 (27:04):
Exactly highlighted as a particularly beneficial way to spend your time,
but specifically games that force you to think creatively, utilize
your imagination, and solve constantly evolving problems.
Speaker 1 (27:17):
So things like crosswords or sudoku, as the sources mentioned, those.
Speaker 3 (27:21):
Are great examples.
Speaker 2 (27:22):
Yeah, and they point out these games don't have an
age limit fun for everyone.
Speaker 3 (27:26):
It's about making mental workouts enjoyable.
Speaker 1 (27:28):
How do they actually help? Cognitively speaking?
Speaker 2 (27:31):
They actively hone your mental faculties while bringing you to
light and happiness. It's the tasking the mind part that's key.
The sources site research from twenty nineteen finding that people
who regularly played these kinds of thinking games performed better
cognitively than those who didn't.
Speaker 1 (27:46):
So there's actual evidence for it.
Speaker 2 (27:47):
Yeah, these games aren't just time fillers. They're training. They
improve specific skills, problem solving, memory, critical thinking, creativity, all
while you're just having fun. It turns leisure time into
a cognitive growth opportunity.
Speaker 1 (28:02):
Play You're way smarter. I love it. Okay. Wow. Sixteen
habits from asking questions and reading to sleep, organization focus,
even playing games. It's quite a list, it is, But
the core message running through it all seems really clear. Now,
intelligence isn't this fixed thing you're just dealt it's dynamic.
It's like a muscle exactly.
Speaker 2 (28:23):
It can be strengthened, protected, expanded. It all comes down
to conscious, consistent habits. It's really not about being born smart,
it's about living smart.
Speaker 1 (28:32):
And the sources mentioned something about these habits becoming automatic
over time, requiring minimal consciousness.
Speaker 2 (28:38):
Right, that's the beauty of habits. Once they're ingrained, they
become part of your routine. They contribute to your growth
without requiring constant, draining effort. And they don't just work
in isolation, do.
Speaker 1 (28:47):
They No, you can see how they connect, Like being
observant feeds your questions, which drives reading, which gives you
knowledge to share.
Speaker 2 (28:54):
And all of that works better when your brain is rested,
fueled properly, and you're physically active.
Speaker 3 (28:59):
They center.
Speaker 2 (28:59):
To guys, the combined effect is way more powerful than
just adding up the individual habits.
Speaker 1 (29:05):
It's a whole system for growth, a holistic approach. So
for everyone listening, having gone through all sixteen, maybe think
about this. If you had to pick just one habit
from this step dive, just one thing to start implementing,
even in a small way, starting today, which one would
it be? Why that one?
Speaker 2 (29:24):
That's a great practical takeaway, or maybe think of it bigger.
How do you see these habits connecting for you? How
could they work together to create that compounding effect making
you not just a little smarter here or there, but
fundamentally more capable, more resilient overall.
Speaker 1 (29:40):
That's the real potential here, isn't it that fundamental shift. Well,
this has been fascinating. We really hope this deep dive
encourages you to stay curious, embrace that joy of learning,
and keep exploring the amazing world of knowledge every single day.
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