Are You a Genius? My Journey with Intelligence and Success
Introduction
For some of us, we may believe we possess a remarkable level of intelligence, akin to that of a genius. But does intelligence always translate into an advantage? In this article, we explore the perspectives of individuals who identify themselves as geniuses and those who remain humble about their cognitive abilities. We delve into the complexities of intelligence, its impact on one's life, and the factors that contribute to high IQ scores.
The Myth of Being a Geniusr
Many individuals, including myself, often carry the burden of being perceived as intellectuals or geniuses. However, as someone who has spent a significant portion of their life in the academic realm and beyond, I have learned that the label of genius is not always a blessing. To quote a renowned individual in the field, most of their life was regarded as a 'useless hyperintellectual nerd,' which served as a convenient way to remain 'harmless.'
Polymath and Intellectual Anomaly
As a polymath, my publications span a variety of topics where I have gained knowledge without formal training. This unique approach to learning has allowed me to accumulate a broad range of knowledge and skills. One of the habits I adopted early in life was speaking about 'the students' in the third person, a practice I continued even as a PhD student. My PhD supervisor considered me a colleague rather than just a student, highlighting the level of respect and trust I gained from my work.
The Advantage of False Humility
Societal dynamics play a crucial role in how we perceive geniuses. By not appearing too intelligent, one can avoid confrontations with 'alpha males and females' who may perceive one as a threat. It's not uncommon for individuals with high IQs to be overlooked in 'mine is bigger than yours' scenarios. However, true genius is about more than just having a high IQ; it's about the ability to apply these skills in real-life situations.
My IQ Story
Being a genius isn't just about having a high IQ. According to Mensa's definition, I fall in the top 1%, particularly excelling in solving mathematical puzzles in real-world scenarios. Over time, I discovered patterns and relationships within equations and measurements, leading to innovative solutions. My IQ score of 30 points above my parents, who themselves had average IQs, can be attributed to random genetic factors.
Research has shown that several dozen genes influence IQ, but none of them have a significant impact. Instead, random combinations and the age of parents at conception play a crucial role. Being conceived by young parents, my intellectual development was enhanced, and the absence of adverse environmental factors such as pollution and lack of nutrition further contributed to my high IQ.
Every element of my high IQ is the result of random luck. My parents' age, genetic combinations, and a nurturing environment all contributed to my exceptional cognitive abilities, none of which I controlled or chose. Despite these favorable circumstances, I remain modest and recognize that intelligence is only one aspect of success.
Conclusion
Success and genius come in many forms and are not solely defined by IQ scores. While my story highlights the importance of leveraging intelligence effectively, it also underscores the role of environment, luck, and hard work. Whether or not you believe you are a genius, the key is to continue striving for excellence and applying your intellectual capabilities to make a meaningful impact in the world.