Choosing Friends Wisely: Why Smart People Don’t Necessarily Make You Smarter
When your parents or teachers tell you to hang out with smarter friends because it will make you smarter, they might be confusing being smart with social behavior. Let’s delve deeper into why simply spending time with intellectually gifted individuals does not automatically make you smarter. Additionally, we will explore the importance of avoiding jerks and the factors that truly make a person smart.
Why Simply Being with Smart People Isn't Enough
There is a popular belief that surrounding yourself with smarter friends will inevitably increase your intelligence. However, this notion is not entirely accurate. Although engaging in conversations with intelligent individuals can certainly expose you to new ideas and perspectives, this alone does not guarantee an improvement in your own cognitive abilities. Intelligence fosters growth and understanding, but it is not a passive process. Active engagement, learning, and applying new knowledge are the true drivers of intelligence gain.
Recognizing Jerks in Your Social Circle
It is crucial to recognize that simply because someone is smart, it does not mean they will make you smarter by association. In fact, associating with a jerk (whether they are smart or not) can be detrimental to your mental and emotional well-being. A jerk, by definition, is someone who behaves in an unreasonable or rude manner, often at the expense of others. Spending time with such individuals can lead to feelings of embarrassment, frustration, and even depression.
Therefore, while it is important to seek out smart friends, it is equally important to ensure that these individuals have positive qualities and do not exhibit jerk-like behavior. Smart people, when they are not jerks, are valuable assets to any group. However, when they are jerks, they can be toxic to your mental health and personal growth.
Principles of Smart Friend Selection
No one should stick with friends just because they are considered smart. Instead, you should prioritize spending time with people you enjoy being around. This means evaluating not only their intellect but also their character, behavior, and overall compatibility with your values and lifestyle. A person’s intelligence, while admirable, does not automatically translate to a positive social dynamic.
For example, some smart people can be quite introverted and may come across as standoffish or distant. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they are jerks. Introverted individuals often derive great value from their solitude and may simply need more time to warm up to new people. So, don’t be quick to judge or dismiss an introverted smart person. Take the time to get to know them and understand their unique communication style.
Factors That Truly Make a Person Smart
Ultimately, what makes a person smart is a complex amalgamation of various factors, including but not limited to the places they go, the books they read, the schools they attend, the experiences they have, and the wisdom they gain over time. Intelligence is not a static trait but a dynamic process that involves continuous learning and growth.
A smart person must actively seek out new information, engage in critical thinking, and apply learned knowledge to real-life situations. They must also possess a willingness to adapt and evolve with changing circumstances. Simply possessing a high IQ is not enough; true intelligence requires a holistic approach that includes personal development, emotional intelligence, and a willingness to challenge oneself.
Lastly, it is essential to evaluate the behavior of a smart person. If someone is a jerk, regardless of their intelligence, it is crucial to avoid hanging out with them. A smart jerk can be particularly dangerous, as they may use their intelligence to manipulate or harm others. If their behavior is unnecessarily hurtful, risky, or dangerous, it is best to distance yourself from them and prioritize friendships that benefit both of you.
In conclusion, being with smart people can indeed be beneficial, but only if these individuals have positive qualities and do not exhibit jerk-like behavior. Prioritize your social relationships based on mutual enjoyment, mutual respect, and shared values. Remember, a true friend is one who brings out the best in you, not the worst.