There’s a clear connection between our daily habits and our levels of intelligence.
Psychology draws a direct line between the actions we take every morning and how our brains function.
Now, don’t get me wrong. By saying this, I don’t mean that waking up early and drinking green tea will suddenly raise your IQ points.
But certain morning routines can indicate a higher level of intelligence.
In this article, I’ll share with you 7 such habits. We’re taking a deep dive into the psychology behind these actions, so get ready to take notes.
1) Embracing stillness
Have you ever noticed how some people start their day in a frantic rush, while others seem to float through their mornings with an air of calm?
Psychology tells us that the latter group might be onto something.
The habit of embracing stillness in the morning is often linked with a high level of intelligence.
Intelligent individuals understand the value of quiet time spent alone with their thoughts. They use this time to mentally prepare for the day, strategize, or simply enjoy a moment of solitude.
This doesn’t mean they’re meditating for hours on end. It could be as simple as sitting quietly with a cup of coffee, or spending a few minutes in the garden.
But the key is that they’re not rushing.
They’re allowing their brain time to wake up, to process, and to plan. This habit sets them up for success throughout the rest of the day.
And even if you’re not a natural born early bird, this is a habit you can cultivate. Start by setting aside just five minutes each morning for quiet reflection, and build from there.
2) Prioritizing physical activity
I used to think that people who hit the gym before sunrise were slightly crazy. I mean, who wants to sweat it out on a treadmill while it’s still dark outside?
But then I came across studies that showed the connection between physical exercise and cognitive function. I was intrigued.
So, I decided to give it a go. I started with just a quick 20-minute jog around the block.
To my surprise, I found that this early morning exercise didn’t just wake up my body, it woke up my mind too. I felt more alert and more focused throughout the day.
This is not to say that you need to start training for a marathon. But even a bit of light stretching or yoga in the morning can boost your mood and stimulate your brain.
And the best part? This is a habit that anyone can adopt. You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership – just a commitment to get your body moving first thing in the morning.
Give it a try. You might be surprised at how quickly you see the benefits.
3) Consuming knowledge
Drinking a cup of coffee might be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about starting your day. But for some smart folks, consuming knowledge is just as vital.
This doesn’t mean they’re buried in textbooks at the crack of dawn. It could be as simple as reading the news, listening to a podcast, or even watching a documentary.
The goal is to stimulate their minds and stay informed about what’s happening in the world.
Now here’s something intriguing. According to a study, adults who engage in daily reading are significantly more likely to score higher in various measures of cognitive ability than those who don’t.
So, while it’s easy to hit the snooze button and roll over, consider switching up your routine. Start your day with some light reading or listening and see how it impacts your cognitive function.
4) Goal setting
We all have goals, but how many of us actually take the time to map them out first thing in the morning?
A common habit among intelligent individuals is to use their morning time to set clear, achievable goals for the day.
This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re launching into a full-scale project management exercise. It might be as simple as jotting down a to-do list or mentally walking through their day.
Why does this matter?
Setting goals provides a roadmap for your day. It gives you a clear sense of direction and helps you stay focused and productive.
So, if you want to boost your intelligence, consider making goal setting a part of your morning routine. Whether you write it down or keep it in your head, starting your day with a clear plan can set you up for success.
5) Mindful eating
I’ll be honest, I used to be a serial skipper of breakfast. I thought I was saving time and cutting calories. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Eating a healthy breakfast is one of the most beneficial morning habits, and it’s often associated with a high level of intelligence.
Why? Because your brain needs fuel to function effectively. And not just any fuel, but the right kind of fuel.
Having a balanced breakfast can enhance memory, improve concentration levels, and even boost mood.
When I started paying attention to what I ate in the morning, I noticed that I was more alert and more productive.
So, if you’re used to rushing out the door without a bite, try making time for a nutritious breakfast instead. Your brain will thank you for it.
6) Embracing the unusual
When it comes to morning routines, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. But, interestingly, those with a high level of intelligence often embrace the unusual.
This could be as simple as trying a new breakfast recipe, taking a different route on your morning walk, or learning a new word every day.
Why does this matter?
Novel experiences can stimulate the brain and encourage creativity. They can also help you to see things from different perspectives and enhance problem-solving skills.
So, don’t be afraid to shake things up occasionally. Try something new in your morning routine and see how it sparks your intellect.
7) Practicing gratitude
The most powerful habit of all, and one that’s often linked to intelligence, is practicing gratitude.
Starting your day with a sense of thankfulness can positively impact your mental and emotional wellbeing. It helps you focus on what you have rather than what you lack.
But the benefits don’t stop there.
Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can also improve sleep, enhance relationships, and even boost immunity.
So, consider incorporating a moment of gratitude into your morning routine. Whether it’s writing in a gratitude journal or simply reflecting on something you’re thankful for, this small act can have profound effects on your overall intelligence and wellbeing.
