Primary Traits and Secondary Characteristics of Human Intelligence

Different ways that intelligence is manifested, and help you to understand your own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Rana Kanwal
Rana Kanwal - Writer 5 Min Read

Are you intelligent? This is a question that can trouble anyone for a few seconds, as none of us can easily accept the idea of considering ourselves less intelligent or ignorant. Just as we never believe the first sentence, similarly, we generally do not accept that someone else can also be intelligent.

This debate can be lengthy, but there are still some things or signs that give an indication of intelligence to some extent. The most important quality of intelligent individuals is that they always have a bright and open mind. This means they are always eager to work on new ideas. They are not content with conventional ways and are not bound by the ‘status quo.’

Primary Traits of Intelligence:

These individuals take immediate action to solve problems, and it can be said that their brains work much better during crises. They assess problems with both critical and constructive approaches. Since they are forward-thinking, their assessment of the benefits or losses related to any task is usually accurate. However, it should also be noted that such individuals generally apply practical methods to solve problems and do not rely on mere speculation.

Secondary Characteristics of Intelligence:

One strange thing about these individuals is that they seldom consider themselves above average. They never perceive their intelligence as extraordinary, and sometimes they themselves are not even aware of their capabilities. They downplay their own achievements, which might be significant for others. This is primarily because they are not self-assured and continually strive for improvement. They are curious about everything, not only looking at one side of the wall but also exploring beyond.

A sense of humor and wit are qualities that are often associated with intelligent individuals. They handle difficult situations with grace and can bring happiness to the world around them. They make efforts to navigate through tough times with a sense of humor. However, it should be remembered that this is just an effort. They are also human, affected covertly by the issue and prepare to confront it, but they have complete control over their emotions.

Maintaining self-control in challenging situations is itself a very difficult task, but intelligent individuals continuously strive to find a way out of this adversity. Intelligent individuals can accomplish many tasks simultaneously. We can take the example of a homemaker who is cooking, watching a parenting show, and keeping an eye on the children at the same time.

Continuous Learning and Growth:

Who wouldn’t want to learn new things and acquire new skills? However, it’s not within everyone’s grasp. But for intelligent individuals, this is a breeze. They acquire many skills and have an enduring passion for learning new things. They possess creative abilities, which is why they don’t hesitate to take new risks and pursue what they want.

Effective Communication and Teamwork:

Building better relationships with others in society is not an easy task because it requires understanding each other, and people from different backgrounds and education levels may clash in their qualities due to their experiences. Therefore, it is quite difficult to walk together with mutual understanding, but the most intelligent individuals work like a team. They don’t take credit for themselves but applaud hardworking people. They don’t get discouraged by baseless criticism, nor do they demoralize others, but they walk along with people, knowing them well. This is a great ability to lead different people together.

The Art of Questioning:

These individuals also know that one way to spread knowledge is by asking questions, but their questions are meaningful, purposeful, and not exhausting. Their purpose in asking questions is not to show someone up but to add to their knowledge and understanding.

Intelligence is generally innate. Each of us possesses some inherent abilities, but the environment, upbringing, and life experiences teach us a lot, and based on that, a person learns a lot. As you’ve surely heard and read, a person becomes stronger after facing difficulties. Every one of us should seize every moment to recognize and then improve our abilities. The progress of the country and the nation is a later step; first, the person should improve themselves. This is the true success of the human species.

rana kanwal, rana writes
By Rana Kanwal Writer
Writer at Aware Pakistan, Punjab University ‘Mass Communication Graduate’ and System Analyst in PRAL at the Federal Board of Revenue in Islamabad.
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