Your brain needs exercise just like a muscle. If you use it often and in the right ways, you will become a more skilled thinker and increase your ability to focus. But if you never use your brain, or abuse it with harmful chemicals, your ability to think and learn will deteriorate.
Here are 5 simple ways anyone can squeeze a bit more productivity out of the old gray matter.
1. Minimize Television Watching – This is a hard sell. People love vegetating in front of the television, myself included more often than I’d like. The problem is watching television doesn’t use your mental capacity OR allow it to recharge. It’s like having the energy sapped out of a muscle without the health benefits of exercise.
Don’t you feel drained after a couple hours of TV? Your eyes are sore and tired from being focused on the light box for so long. You don’t even have the energy to read a book.
When you feel like relaxing, try reading a book instead. If you’re too tired, listen to some music. When you’re with your friends or family, leave the tube off and have a conversation. All of these things use your mind more than television and allow you to relax.
2. Exercise – I used to think that I’d learn more by not exercising and using the time to read a book instead. But I realized that time spent exercising always leads to greater learning because it improves productivity during the time afterwards. Using your body clears your head and creates a wave of energy. Afterwards, you feel invigorated and can concentrate more easily.
3. Read Challenging Books – Many people like to read popular suspense fiction, but generally these books aren’t mentally stimulating. If you want to improve your thinking and writing ability you should read books that make you focus. Reading a classic novel can change your view of the world and will make you think in more precise, elegant English. Don’t be afraid to look up a word if you don’t know it, and don’t be afraid of dense passages. Take your time, re-read when necessary, and you’ll soon grow accustomed to the author’s style.
Once you get used to reading challenging books, I think you’ll find that you aren’t tempted to go back to page-turners. The challenge of learning new ideas is far more exciting than any tacky suspense-thriller.
4. Early to Bed, Early to Rise – Nothing makes it harder to concentrate than sleep deprivation. You’ll be most rejuvenated if you go to bed early and don’t sleep more than 8 hours. If you stay up late and compensate by sleeping late, you’ll wake up lethargic and have trouble focusing. In my experience the early morning hours are the most tranquil and productive. Waking up early gives you more productive hours and maximizes your mental acuity all day.
If you have the opportunity, take 10-20 minute naps when you are hit with a wave of drowsiness. Anything longer will make you lethargic, but a short nap will refresh you.
5. Take Time to Reflect – Often our lives get so hectic that we become overwhelmed without even realizing it. It becomes difficult to concentrate because nagging thoughts keep interrupting. Spending some time alone in reflection gives you a chance organize your thoughts and prioritize your responsibilities. Afterwards, you’ll have a better understanding of what’s important and what isn’t. The unimportant stuff won’t bother you anymore and your mind will feel less encumbered.
I’m not saying you need to sit on the floor cross-legged and chant ‘ommm’. Anything that allows a bit of prolonged solitude will do. One of my personal favorites is taking a solitary walk. Someone famous said, “All the best ideas occur while walking.” I think he was on to something. Experiment to find the activity that works best for you.
Conclusion – I hope you aren’t disappointed that none of the techniques I’ve proposed are revolutionary. But simple, unexciting answers are often the most valid. The challenge is having the will to adhere to them. If you succeed in following these 5 tips, you’ll be rewarded with increased mental acuity and retention of knowledge.
If you’re still hungry for more, check out the follow up post: 5 More Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence.
I wholeheartedly agree with everyone listed. I’ve just started doing these things plus a few more within the past couple months and my productivity in every aspect of my life has tripled. It has turned out to be exhilarating, educational, and refreshing. Bravo!
Great tips, John. I especially like #3, read challenging books. Most people will just read books which are comfortable for them, me included.
Reading this post makes me realize that it won’t grow my intelligence much. Stretching our mind to the boundaries is the way to make it stronger and stronger.
Fantastic post John. I think all five points are valid, but no TV is by far the most important. What do you do if you don’t watch TV? You are naturally inclined to fill the time by reading, excercising, relecting, and if you’re too tired to do any of that….go to bed early.
exactly Grey your smart man :d i think watching tv it’s a waste of time..let me talk about myself ,i when i was a child the only thing i was doing is watching tv allday long and now i can see the symptom of it ,really it make your brain cell’s dies and let me have a weak concentration and reduction of education .i advice every one to read books instead of watching tv .trust me
Most people dont read…so reading is a start for most.
Great idea…but if I am gonna watch TV what is some challenging TV to watch?
Also what are some of those “challenging” books to read.
I find reading books very time challenging issue…Id suggest reading “challenging” magazines/periodicals as well… You can get a lot out of the short stories/essays.
I’m almost finished reading Foucalt’s Pendulumn by Umberto Eco and I can recommend it to anyone who liked the idea behind the Da Vinco Code, but hated its banal false pretenses. I never watch TV, (its antenna is not even plugged into the wall.) I do spend a lot of time behind a computer, playing computer games and reading. I enjoy chemicals, but have had to stop that to persue competitive sport. Unfortunately I don’t sleep enough and drink too much now. So you missed one aspect, self control. One of my personal rules (may not make you smarter) is everythig in moderation. Not only what you eat, drink etc (which will help you be a healthier person) but what you listen to, what you read,what you watch. Every time you experience some genre you have never experienced before, it gives you a new perspective on life, as long as you are open minded to the reason behind it. And then you may use it as it is valid in your everyday life.
You are right about self control, that’s they key to actually doing any of this stuff.
if you want to watch something challenging on TV try to watch shows in foreign languages and then learn them, or watch documentaries or political talk shows.
Or you could watch a good movie with interesting dialog. I also love Discovery HD.
i disagree with the reflection, i dont think its nessesary if you live now.
I am a fundamentalist follower of all 5 points. Though for me the 5th, reflection, cannot be radical enough. No, I don’t sit cross legged and go ommmm, but I do meditate for 30 minutes everyday. It cleans the mind and gives me mental energy.
As far as TV goes, I don’t think there’s anything like challenging TV. The most challenging TV is minor league stuff compared to any good book.
All my life I’ve ha this. “potetial” “so smart” “phenom” Nade me lazy, unhappy. Thank goodness I smartened up!
I used to watch a lot of television when I was younger, but then went for a long period when I didn’t have one. When the mere habit of watching was broken, I was astonished to realize how stupid almost all television shows were once I got a TV again and sampled some. Even more annoying were commercials, along with the fact that they run *during* a show. Imagine trying to tell someone a story, but interrupting every few minutes to shout, “Hey check this out!” Even if there is challenging television, much of the value is lost if the station runs commercials during the show.
I own a television now, and am not opposed to catching a stray night of David Letterman, but mostly use it to watch DVD’s. Try watching a bunch of the movies that get conistently high reviews. Then do the same without requiring that the movies be recent. Then do the same without requiring that the movies be in English. Your world will be changed.
Well, while I whole-heartedly agree with your tips, I think you’ve forgotten a crucial one- save some time for prayer. Daily prayer is absolutely essential. True, it could be tied in with tip # 5, but it goes beyond reflection. Spending time with the Lord is the most important thing I do each day, and it leaves me feeling clear-headed and ready to take on the world. I recommend it for everyone.
I totally agree with all five points. I will also add moderated internet usage and with a concrete objective. I notice that “internet zapping” has really fucked up my concentration and attention span.
Also, I good way to avoid excesive TV usage is avoiding zapping at all costs, thats the real brain drainer. Nowadays I only watch certain tv shows I donwload via internet, that way I don’t lose time zapping.
Without “internet zapping” I would not have read this article
I like how this article claims your methods make you ‘improve your thinking and writing ability,’ yet contains the following flagrant error of bad writing:
“If you want improve your thinking and writing ability you should read books that make you focus.”
Hate mail expected. Have fun kids.
Loser.
Did you really need to point that out?
Yes, that is a typo. Thanks for pointing it out.
I would like to add one more, reduce surfing the net aimlessly. I reduce my TV watching only to find myself surfing general sites. Now I have taken up reading and learning the piano again but this TV thing, man it ain’t easy quitting it.
The most important thing is to try new things. Variety is the spice of life and also the only true antioxidant.
> If you stay up late and compensate by sleeping late, you’ll wake up lethargic and have trouble focusing.
I’ve been doing this for almost half a year without any lethargy at all. I’m up at night half the time, but when I’m programming, I continue to get tons of productivity late into the day when I get into a “zone”. Sleeping in the next day, I wake up with my head crystal clear, fully rested and ready for more.
The problems you mention might be a matter of getting used to it, or a feeling of social loss from not being on the same schedule as everyone else. There could also be a problem if you have to go back onto a 24-hour schedule later.
Right on target John. Infact, these things do a lot more to improve the overall quality of life, for example improve your attention span ( read more in my post http://www.educatedbeing.com/2006/08/08/how-to-increase-your-attention-span/)
Taking time to reflect is the one that makes most difference, I believe.
Hmmm… kinda neat that most, if not all, of the responding posts were by males… just thinkin out loud.
Good post with a lot of common sense. I do watch television, even the less brainy stuff, but I do love PBS for the fact that there is so much there to really stimulate my thinking and understanding of the world. I also listen to NPR and podcasts with political and technological subject matter. And as a designer, I find creativity is a great way to take ideas and bring them into the world in a tangible way.
That’s wierd. It sounds exactly like a sabbath day. hrmm.
Good advices, but too few..
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Great Advice
I agree with everything except one thing. Most people’s sleep cycle operates on a 90 minute period. That is stage I sleep to REM sleep. So to get the most out of your sleep it’s best to get 7 1/2 or 9 hours instead of 8.
Yes, TV isn’t challenging at all. Unless you’re watching a great PBS series like “American Experience,” “Frontline,” or “Nova.” Or a great science program on the Discovery or National Geographic channels. Or an in-depth history show on the History Channel. Or a great movie. Or just about anything on the Documentary Channel. Or just about anything on Free Speech TV. Or a jazz bio on Trio. Or a vintage concert on VH1 Classic. Or a great, challenging music video like “Kick, Push” by Lupe Fiasco. Or a highly intelligent, literate, mentally engaging comedy like “Futurama” or “Extras.” Or an exciting sporting event. Or … you get the idea. In my opinion, blanket condemnations of television tend to be woefully ill-informed and generally useless. Every medium out there has its share of brilliance and garbage. You’re not enhancing your intelligence by blindly writing any of them off. I also think having some regular contact with the culture of the world you live in enhances intelligence and understanding. I roughly agree with your other four items, though I would add creative socializing to the list. But everything in moderation, including TV. As Pete Townshend once wrote, “Too much of anything is too much for me.”
Hm poor ?? (I opened this site by mistake )
I couldent forbear from comment
I think that it take high intelligence to come to so brilliant ideas
I am only wonder if you know tahat expresion of your gene is possible only in some range
So if Iwere born as a idiot I could only reduce my stupidity
I am also wonder how a classic novel can improve your thinking ( of course without view to it`s often fiction)
for example : Żeromski uu yeeeh tahat`s it
Don’t forget the crossword puzzles..!!
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence | Pick the Brain – Getting Smarter Every Day (tags: productivity intelligence lifehacks education psychology inspiration brain) [...]
I agree with this article, especially with numbers 3, 4 and 5. To me, there is nothing more mentally stimulating than reading a book that makes me think about the content and significance of what I am reading. To danb: perhaps you are suffering from a disorder of somesort.
Read chanlleging books, Exercise, Early to bed & early to rise, Reflection, Minimize dull stuff. Thank you, John. It does good to me.
[...] You can read the post here. [...]
I do all this stuff, except going to bed early, i always thought it’s just my biological rythm going to sleep at 4 and waking up at 12, and yet i do feel kinda lethargic, thanks, John, gonna try your advise.
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence | Pick the Brain – Getting Smarter Every Day (tags: lifehacks intelligence productivity) [...]
JimPGFoi: It’s only a disorder if it is a problem.
I am a late sleeper/waker. It is simply my body clock; the only thing that makes me lethargic is caffeine addiction (which I intend to break soon). For curiosity’s sake, what is “early” anyway?
Television only interests me if it makes me think; same when it comes to websites. Books I simply don’t have time for. That may sound conceited, but I just cannot afford the time it takes to read books. It would probably help if I were a speed-reader, but I’m not. I compensate by drawing and having stimulating conversations. I’m sure your pointers are very effective for people that cannot find their own ways.
Amen to the early to bed, early to rise…if I could just convince my wife of that! We are diurnal creatures by design and were meant to sleep when the sun goes down and become active again when it rises. Television and the electric light bulb and modern society have seriously altered our natural patterns. My sharpest mental period is always from about 6am to just after lunch.
Read Challenging Books : hit me on the head once more with the cherished book. This is getting to be a stale muffin. Its always implied the computer can not perform the same function. The alphabet is the same, and the words have the same meanings.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise: another bonk to the noggin. Implied is the glory of that period leading up to daybreak, as if it had special precedent over any other period. Quite right that sleep deprivation is a robber of a sharp mind, as are irregular sleeping hours.
I think your picks are sound and wise, I just don’t agree of putting books and the morning on a pedestal. Enjoy your egg McMuffin while reading Pride & Prejudice in the early daybreak, but theres no need to say that is the best for others who have different ideas of accomplishing the same goals.
All of these are very true, yet I find that getting out and socializing is sometimes one of the most mentally-beneficial things one can do.
If you live alone, and isolate yourself, over time the social areas of your brain begin to weaken, other areas soon following suit. Alzheimer’s, afterall, mostly affects those middle-aged adults who have lived alone for several years.
@JimPGFoi:
> perhaps you are suffering from a disorder of somesort.
It’s called “laziness”
I’ve been experimenting with a free-floating schedule, and it seems to work great. No computer programming when I’m sleepy, coffee only when I feel like it, and I sleep like a baby. All the other things in this article work very well, but I’ve never liked the “early to rise” part 
Can you give us few more tips. These are not sufficient.
[...] John Wesley shares the 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence I’ve got to starting working on points 2 and 4. [...]
Kamesh,
I just posted some reader tips, and also invited everyone to share their own. This is the new post: http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/5-more-ways-to-make-the-most-of-your-intelligence/
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nice post – your feed is now in my google reader/
Television gets a bad rap. There are a lot of great and mentally stimulating shows among the different Discovery Channels and The History Channel. Sure, one could read about most of the things that are on there (and I often do after watching), but speaking as a teacher, there is much better retention when multiple senses are stimulated–something you don’t really get from simply reading a book.
Also, a good comedy or drama (or comedrama as I like to call some of the shows) from time to time is pretty harmless.
I would disagree with the thought that “popular suspense fiction” isn’t good reading. It really depends on the author… and generally it’s easier to read something you ENJOY than something you loathe. I can sit down and read classics all day, I was reading at far above that level in 9th grade in high school (back in the early 90s)– however, I loathe reading it. It takes me 4-5x as long, not because of comprehension or lack of knowing the vocabulary being used… but because it’s dry and boring as hell and I can’t “get into” reading it. Give me something that interests me, like Greg Bear’s Eon or Larry Niven’s Ringworld and I’ll devour the book in a matter of an hour or two and go looking for more. After falling asleep 6-7 times reading “a classic” I won’t want to read again for a week. I think I’ve read 300-400 books that most people consider to be “classics” and I’ve enjoyed less than 20 of them. I’ve read perhaps 8000-10000 popular fiction/science fiction books and I enjoyed more than 50% of them.
If you dislike what you’re reading no matter what the quality of the work is… it’s boring and sucks.
Whatever floats your boat.
[...] I read a really good post over at Pick the Brain that listed 5 ways to maximize your intelligence. [...]
> The problem is watching television doesn’t use
> your mental capacity OR allow it to recharge.
I would challenge that because it highly depends what you are watching on your TV.
Sure if you watch Soap operas and Talk Shows you don’t train your brain at all.
But if you watch complicated Thrillers, for example your mind is – or at least should be – working out who the killer is etc…
Documentaries can be very educational – and a good way to learn new things on a higher level because it audio and visual – the more ways you get information presented the higher the chances are that they stick in your mind…
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence by John WesleyJohn gives you 5 practical tips to develop your intelligence. Among them are minimizing television watching, exercising, and reading challenging books. [...]
[...] 5 Simple Ways To Make The Most Of Your Intelligence by John Wesley [...]
Good list. I think of the 5 listed here – #5 is THE one that generates growth.
[...] While this article really doesn’t contain much about actually helping with your business, it has a couple points to research further. It’s really more psychology of entroprenours. 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence Your brain needs exercise just like a muscle. If you use it often and in the right ways, you will become a more skilled thinker and increase your ability to focus. But if you never use your brain, or abuse it with harmful chemicals, your ability to think and learn will deteriorate. [...]
Thanks MAN….Really a good one..
[...] John Wesley presents 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence posted at Pick the Brain. [...]
This may look strange, but it works for me.
Iclose my eyes and image halls that have doors and paintings on the walls. This may sound simple but if you really focus on everything you are watching , like the walls, doors handles, colors, shapes, and try to completely immerse in that though. Dont think of anything outside that, just see every single detail. Then you are exercising your imagination
As a library media specialist I am more than happy to see the “reading ” factor. I wholeheartedly agree that reading stretches your mind. I have never been one for pop lit but I do see the popularity because it is considered easy and a page-turner so the title is completed faster than one that forces you to think.
I dont read avidly but I do read a good deal.
I went without tv for years and now Im back watching tv and I do find it relaxing. Mostly I watch movies. So my tv time is focused to the time of the movie. I will admit I also watch the junk tv here and there…
As for surfing the net. I do it so much for my job that its all over the place. Alot of zapping did bring me here, some focus usually helps, going astray sometimes can also lead you to good things!
smiles!
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[...] Pick the Brain: 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence. Very simple things we can all do. [...]
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Thank you for give the tips…
Agree with *every single word* … in fact all the five points exactly as they are.
Great post !!
Thanks, Robins!
[...] Here are 5 simple ways anyone can squeeze a bit more productivity out of the old gray matter… [More: PickTheBrain.com] [...]
I would add “learn new things” to your list. Learning a new language or a sport can be helpful to improve the intelligence.
John,
Thankyou for constructing such a clear and informative page. I have printed off your points, and will make a large effort to carry through with it all. Hopefully you have given me the positive energy I need in my life at the moment.
Kind reguards.
@Howtolife – Learning new things is definitely a great way to stimulate your mind. It’s a good addition to the list.
Brett – Best of luck in your efforts. We all need to make an effort to start in a positive direction. Thanks for the reminder.
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence [...]
John I agree with these principles. I summarize these to say: rest (sleep, away from TV)and stimulate (exercise and absorb challenging material) the brain.
I want to tickle the mind here…has the Internet replaced the TV for some of us?
I can spend hours here soaking up information on StumbleUpon, MNSB, Blogs on a variety of subjects that keep me in tune with current events, educate me on subjects which I would not have the time/money to acquire reading material. Some people do not know what a “Blog” is and they are Executives of companies, holders of Degrees but are only challenged in the rat race society to focus only on job-related material
Back to big bad TV…….relax with Grey’s Anatomy, stimulate your brain on History Channel, learn to prepare a meal with Rachel Ray, worship with TBN…get my drift.
Peace
By the way, I left my job June 2006 and entered the world of the Internet, cut back drastically on TV and learnt “Blog” at age 46Yrs!!
Now I fill each day with a little from each John-spectrum and feel I am mentally more agile than before.
From Jamaica, respect!
I definitely agree that the internet has now surpassed TV as the primary information source for many people, especially people on the forefront of technology. TV is slow, its out of date, it lacks variety and the individual flavor of internet media.
Having a wide variety of sources of mental stimulation is a great way to become more agile, and the internet is a great place to do it. How else could I exchange thoughts with someone in Jamaica?
Lately, I have become much sharper by doing the following:
Put in much less time working on math or learning things.
Resting my brain and feeding my need for diversion.
More sleep, more exercise.
I find that now I can do better math research in lots less time because my rested and relaxed mind is sharper.
As in all things, it is about balance.
” How long will it take to reach enlightenment if I try hard?”
Ans. Ten years.
” If I work twice as hard?”
Ans. Twenty years.
” If I work all out?”
Ans. Never
From: “Zen Flesh, Zen Bones”
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence (tags: Blog Advice Life) [...]
An excellent, balanced, and wise article.
I particularly liked the bit about how “simple, unexciting answers are often the most valid.” How true, and how overlooked.
I think some good tv programs like bbc’s documentaries ( or discovery ) etc..make you think and are great to watch…
Also solving one or two puzzles/riddles from the internet daily …gives your gray matter some exercise
third thing is to meditate
thanks
[...] Dave // Feb 15, 2007 at 11:01 pm [...]
Thanks for the tips,
This is such a nice, educational site
Thanks!
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Great methods depicted though the change in external enviroment is only important as the change internally so in conjuction with the methods proper diet is vitally essential.
keep up the great work!!!
Thanks, Lee.
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Thank you for taking the time to share such great information
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[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence [...]
And maybe, just maybe, tell Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo to stop making video games console so that their won’t be people wasting time playing them
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giving tv is really really hard. i use my tv as something to look at to prevent eye strain.
g.
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Yeah ! All the techniques are exactly true and working for me .I would recommend this to All. *Little of ZEN* would be fascinating you more in Work and Life !
As you think , So you Are – Buddha
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[...] put in “5 Simple Ways to Increase Your Intelligence” from PickTheBrain.com: If you have the opportunity, take 10-20 minute naps when you are hit [...]
Thanks for such a fantastic article. My friend and I comment who people are zoned out cogs…if we do not work our brains now…they will not work for us later!
Very grateful for your article!
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Interesting post, I especially liked your tip on cutting back on the TV.
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A lot of creative ideas come from daydreaming also.
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thanks alot for these 5 tips
“Early to Bed, Early to Rise”
Wrong. While it’s critical to get an appropriate amount of sleep (though even this is debated… Buckminister Fuller managed on a couple of hours a day believe it or not), it doesn’t matter much whether you go to bed at 9 or go to bed at 12. In fact, studies show there is some truth to the “early riser” and “night owl” categorizations. That is, there may be something biochemically/physically going on to make someone one way or the other.
“Minimize Television Watching”
I’ll also have to say a couple of words about this. I probably watch 1 or 2 hours of TV a day, and it is almost always either the news or some documentary on PBS, National Geographic Channel, the Travel Channel, etc… Some of the shows I really enjoy are CNN Presents, Modern Marvels, How Things Work (is that the name of it?), and Good Eats (surprisingly informative show about cooking and it’s basic chemistry). Anyway, I feel like I learn a lot from watching TV, for the most part. I havn’t watched network shows (dramas, comedies, etc…) in several years. I simply can’t watch them, to be honest. They seemed aimed at the intellectually challenged.
[...] education. This doesn’t mean you need to pursue a doctorate or spend 2 hours reading every day. Self education can be anything that takes you out of your comfort zone. The important part is keeping an open mind and searching [...]
very inspiring indeed. I will surely benefit from these points and remember that small things are the ones that matter the most. So following point by point will surely help in time.
I agree with everything except the TV and going to bed early. There is some evidence that TV actually increases your intelligence. If I didn’t watch TV, then I would be ignorant of a lot of world issues. I wouldn’t advocate watching it all day though. I’m at my most productive in the early hours, between midnight and about 2am, which was when I used to do all my university work. Some of us are morning people and some night people. Every time I’ve had a job which requires me to be up in the morning, I’ve felt awful, even if I’ve had 8hrs sleep. My gut doesn’t seem to like it either.
hey now
whoa bud
>Well, while I whole-heartedly agree with your tips, I >think you’ve forgotten a crucial one- save some time for >prayer. Daily prayer is absolutely essential. True, it >could be tied in with tip # 5, but it goes beyond >reflection. Spending time with the Lord is the most >important thing I do each day, and it leaves me feeling >clear-headed and ready to take on the world. I recommend >it for everyone.
Not everyone’s a Christian.
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Increase Intelligence [...]
for as long as i can remember, i feel best when i get odd hours of sleep (ie. 3,5,7 or 9). if i wake up on an even number of hours, i’m groggy all day. isn’t that strange?
•luckygirl•
http://www.airconditioningvegas.com
I am a fan of “we are what we eat”. It’s as similar as with cars and gas; If your gas sucks that your engine will malfunction. Better avoid meat and eat more vegetables. Prefer to eat more fish which it’s fish oil does good for heart and brain.
In addition to these 5 above mentioned steps, you will definately increase your intelligence.
All best Wishes,
Just a funny little being
http://elaughs.blogspot.com
thanks for the GREAT post! Very useful…
[...] source: pickthebrain [...]
I think many of you are arguing over semantics…what if John had said “complex intellectually stimulating” novels instead of “classics” and made clear that he was talking about mass media television, and not PBS/History Channel/Discovery/et al?
While Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke and Tony Hillerman (for example) don’t qualify as “classics” they certainly are intellectually stimulating.
Likewise almost no-one considers Ken Burns’ “civil war” or Sir David Attenborough’s “Life of Birds” to be mind-numbing but this is not mass media…it is aimed at a very small segment of the TV viewing audience – the segment that includes most of us. The point is to avoid dreck like Danielle Steele and MTV and commercial television in general.
I’m having trouble with the first one. Thing is, i do every single thing with the television on. It helps me not to think about other problems. Above all matters, i really want to use my talent and passion in the greatest way; which is in arts and painting. I had wasted years keep searching on ideas and creating a masterpiece, but accomplish nothing. I know this isn’t suppose to be a ‘therapy blog’ but can I have just ONE BIG tip/reason for me to just do what i have to do?
Nice,
I could feel the things you are talking about in my life, TV impact, long naps , nagging thoughts, etc
thank you indeed , I think it’s helpful for me.
Just a couple more….
Relaxing for idea incubation
6) Thinking in metaphors.
7) Using your time efficiently.
9) Seeing and integrating both the micro and the macro. (ie think like a telescope, thinking like a telescope)
10) Think like chess. Anticipating the next move in competitive markets and trends.
Great post, thank you,
I like it ,
To your advance success,
Tracy Ho
wisdomgettingloaded
[...] Pick The Brain: 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence practical and easy-to-practice techniques for keeping the brain exercised. (tags: productivity lifehacks tips) [...]
I agree with your article.. Minimize television watching.. most of our family time are on tv.
And to start a day.. have to rise early in the morning.. make me feel fresh to start a new day.
Thos are excellent points ( I need to heed the sleep and exercise ones ), but you missed one!
Many video games have been proved beneficial to fluid intelligence, otherwise known as problem solving.
Different genres of video games have different levels of difficulty in terms of problem solving.
Even violent PC games such Half Life 2 require thought, timing and strategizing if you want to finish the game in a reasonable amount of time. Imagine you are faced with many hostile soldiers and very limited ammo. Which soldiers do you need to take out in order to reach the next point of safety? Which path should you take? You need to be resourceful.
Other games are outright puzzles, like the mind boggling Portal. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal_(video_game)
Others are somewhere in between, like Real Time Strategy games such as Company of Heroes. Which resource points are important to me at the moment? When is the correct time to make an offensive? When is the correct time to retreat? To achieve my next objective, what unit should I queue up now? And most importantly – you need to think quickly.
Also play other games such as checkers, chess, whatever. The idea is to keep a broad experience I reckon. Everytime you face a problem you need to (quickly) go into your “problem solving repetoire” and pick out a strategy. Of course to do this you also need a sensible sleep pattern and exercise.
Hey, do any of you guys know if reading more will increase your life span?
[...] 5 Simple Ways To Increase Intelligence [...]
[...] stumbled upon a great blog post this afternoon that lists 5 Ways to Increase Your Intelligence. It comes as no surprise that #1 is minimizing your television watching. What things do you do with [...]
i agree
[...] Increase Your Intelligence [...]
[...] Increase Your Intelligence [...]
[...] 5 Simple Ways To Make The Most Of Your Intelligence by John Wesley [...]
I beleive that there are some physical motives to increase intelligence like:
decreasing foods , no much sleeping(2-6) , writing anything if it is insignificant and something like that for television i cannot see any benefit of it except for knowing the current event and have an alternatives
con:this topic especially is exciting you abridge it too much .
and then thanks
My worst problem is sleep deprivation. I think I can easily fulfil the others. But keeping a steady sleep pattern is and has always been difficult for me.
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence Hacking Knowledge: 77 Ways to Learn Faster, Deeper and Better [...]
[...] Increase Your Intelligence [...]
Most of the points are good and I agree with them. However, there is one small problem with point 4, which morning people always forget – namely, night owls. Some of us, ARE more productive in the evening, regarless of habits, and pushing into what the majority thinks is productive only leaves us tired, unable to concentrate and often migrainous.
That’s some nice article but I think
something’s missing here – There’s no
planning. A program to increase our
intelligence can’t go too far just by
counting on some habit shaping. Certain
books should be read, certain curriculum must be
followed in order to achieve real results..
That’s my opinion anyway..
http://www.Brain-Guide.org
These are good steps to improve your memory and attention span.
I especially notice that my memory is affected when I don’t get enough sleep, but sometimes I just can’t sleep. I don’t seem to require more than five hours a night, and you are correct the opposite can also be true, too much sleep and I am lethargic.
I also find if I spend too much time on the computer my brain seems to turn to mush. Too much information. Also the glare is hard on my eyes and causes dryness. I try to limit my exposure. I also work all day on a computer so when I come home the last thing I need is more computer, but I love blogging so find I have to limit myself.
I find a variety of things are probably good. Too much of anything is not good.
I just wanted to add that recent research (reported in Wired and the NY Times) shows that you can improve your intelligence by training your working memory. I’ve developed software that allows anyone to do this at home. Check it out: iqtesttraining dot com
Great Tips, as Muslim praying clear my mind and enable me to communicate with ALLAH by reading Holy Quran, for us Muslims we have 5 prayers per day which really reduce stress and make us feel very comfortable and happy. this is for people that really practice Islam not just Muslims by name.
I think all of them sound like good ideas except for number 4. Recent studies have shown an actual biological basis for the morning person/evening person distinction. Each person has a set of enzymes that are active at different parts of the day. When the enzymes are active, the person is more awake. When they are absent, drowsiness sets in. Morning people begin producing these chemicals as soon as they wake up. Evening people produce them later in the day. Hence, some people are more producting in the morning, whereas others are more productive later in the day.
It’s funny, I never thought I would be able to quit watching some of my favourite TV shows. As soon as I moved abroad (television is awful here) and had nothing to watch I really didn’t miss it at all and found other ways to occupy my time.
Going out with friends, reading, work etc
[...] education. This doesn’t mean you need to pursue a doctorate or spend 2 hours reading every day. Self education can be anything that takes you out of your comfort zone. The important part is keeping an open mind and searching [...]
indeed, the methods are not revolutionary… hoped to find something fresh – those are very basic hints presented in superficial way. Anyway it’s good that you tried to share Your observations
thank you this is a good tips…
I need to understand the technics.
Well, this very nice and wonderful.
As per my understanding, watching TV does reflect into boosting to intelligency power, But in TV waht’s are you watching that’s matter suppose you are watching some movie but not in your regional language that keep you always in good listening mode that can help you. But suppose you are watching a movie but in your own daily uses language then offcourse no benefit. Watch TV in other language( which you can understand but not too much use to), science fiction movie, puzzles program etc.
One thing more I am not agree that anyone can increase their intelligency level. You can increase your brilliancy level only. But again i am not sure too much and just reachearching on that myself…
As per my observation,
Brilliance = Intelligency + Knowledge
Intelligency is fixed thing that’s GOD gifted or you can say it depends on your birth period( 9 months in the womb of your mother)
etc Again i dont know more how to? If anyone know more please can you tell me. You can increase a lot of knowledge so you can increase your brilliance level but not intelligency level….
I did all those stuffs except going to bed early. I wish that i could sleep easily but there is too many things going through my mind. I just can’t shut them down. I dont know how to evacuate those thoughts, to free my mind. Do u have any advice??
[...] education. This doesn’t mean you need to pursue a doctorate or spend 2 hours reading every day. Self education can be anything that takes you out of your comfort zone. The important part is keeping an open mind and searching [...]
Good list. I think of the 5 listed here – #5 is THE one that generates growth.
Hi
I like your simple yet effective ways to improve intelligence, sometimes too much advance thinking make us forget the basics. honestly I am often lack of sleep and have no time to exercise. I am a multi-talented person and I excel in any field that I want to excel, i always want to improve myself and always studying. I have an IQ of 145 and now I am doubting if I still have the same IQ score cause I am always tired and lack of sleep. My brain seems to be slower than it used to be and I am becoming forgetful. I guess sometimes becoming intelligent does not mean you can’t be stupid, sometimes we people tend to forget the basic and we became stupid. The common sense is now becoming uncommon sense. I like your article, there is not much scientific explanation just purely practical and yet effective. You did a good job
THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO STIMULATE YOUR MIND OR FIND PEACE IS BY READING GOD’S HOLY BIBLE. THERE YOU FIND GOD’S PLANS FOR THE BEST LIFE POSSIBLE. FOR 70 YEARS, IT HAS BEEN MY MAINSTAY. BELIEVE ME PLEASE, GOD’S WAY IS THE ONLY WAY.
Beautiful article, i appreciate it!
A comment on point #2: I read somewhere that exercise really does help, but in a very real and physical way. It causes more blood-flow to the brain which in turn expands the growth of blood vessels in it. This gives the brain a boost in oxygen and also causes neurogenesis (neuron growth)! See this article, http://www.dana.org/news/brainwork/detail.aspx?id=7374
[...] ۱- تماشای تلویزیون را به حداقل برسانید. این معامله سختی است، مردم بسیار دوست دارند که مانند یک گیاه تنها پای تلویزیون بنشینند و زل بزنند. مشکل اینجاست که تلویزیون از ظرفیت روحی شما استفاده ای نمی کند یا به آن اجازه تغذیه شدن نمی دهد. مانند این است که یک ماهیچه انرژی بسوزاند اما از مزایای سلامتی این سوخت و ساز استفاده ای نکند. آیا بعد از تماشای تلویزیون به مدت چند ساعت احساس خالی بودن نمی کنید؟ چشمانتان به سوزش می افتد و از تمرکز بروی این جعبه بزرگ خسته می شود، حتی قادر به خواندن یک کتاب هم نخواهید بود. پس زمانی که نیاز به آرامش و استراحت دارید، بجای این کار، یک کتاب بخوانید، اگر خیلی خسته اید، موسیقی گوش کنید. اگر با خانواده و دوستان هستید، تلویزیون را خاموش کنید و با هم گفتگو کنید. تمام اینها بیشتر از تلویزیون از مغز شما استفاده خواهند کرد. ۲- ورزش کنید. شاید فکر کنید اگر بجای ورزش کردن کتاب بخوانید، بیشتر یاد می گیرید، اما ورزش کردن باعث می شود، در ساعتهای بعد از تمرین، بازده شما بالاتر رود و بهتر یاد بگیرید. استفاده از بدن، ذهن شما را آزاد می کند و موجی از انرژی پدید می آورد. روحیه می گیرید و می توانید به سادگی تمرکز کنید. ۳- کتابهای چالش انگیز بخوانید. بسیاری از مردم دوست دارند کتابهای عامه پسند و تعلیقی بخوانند. اما این کتابها عموما برای مغز محرک نیست. اگر میخواهید توانایی تفکر و نوشتن را بهبود بخشید، باید کتابی بخوانید که شما را وادار به تمرکز کند. خواندن یک کتاب کلاسیک می تواند نگرش شما به دنیا را تغییر دهد و شما را با لغتهای ارزشمند و ظریف تر گذشته آشنا کند. از این که دنبال لغتی بروید که نمی دانید، نترسید، از عبارات سنگین و حجیم آن هراس نداشته باشید. زمان کافی بگذارید و دوباره بخوانید تا با شیوه نوشتن نویسنده آشنا شوید. این نوع کتاب خواندن بهتر از تمام کتابهای نخ نما و تعلیقی موجود در بازار است. ۴- زود به رختخواب بروید و زود از خواب برخیزید. هیچ چیز به اندازه کم خوابی تمرکز را سخت نمی کند. یکی از رازهای جوانی این است که زود به رختخواب بروید و بیشتر از ۸ ساعت نخوابید. اگر صبح دیر بیدار شوید و برای جبران آن دیر بخوابید، سست و بیحال از خواب برمیخیزید و نمی توانید تمرکز کنید. گفته می شود که ساعتهای اول صبح بهترین زمان برای آرامش و بازده مناسب است. اگر فرصت دارید در طول روز، زمانی که احساس خواب آلودگی می کنید، ده تا بیست دقیقه چرت بزنید. بیشتر از این شما را کسل می کند اما چرت کوتاه شما را شاداب می کند. ۵- زمانی برای بررسی بازتاب اعمال خود در نظر بگیرید. از آنجا که زندگی ما بیشتر مشوش و گیج کننده شده ، خود ما نیز همواره در عجله و تاب و تب ایم بدون اینکه به آن توجه کنید. تمرکز در این حال دشوار می شود زیرا همواره در حال سرزنش کردن خود هستیم در نتیجه زمانی را برای تنها بودن و بررسی زندگی و سازماندهی افکار و اولویت بندی مسئولیت های خود در نظر بگیرید. بعد از آن بهتر می فهمید چه چیز مهم تر است و چه چیز مهم نیست. سپس چیزهای بی اهمیت دیگر در ذهن شما جایی ندارد و آزارتان نمی دهد و ذهن سبک تر می شود. www.pickthebrain.com [...]
Great article post about 5 ways to increase intelligence…..Above post contain 5 simple ways anyone can squeeze a bit more productivity out of the old gray matter.
7 Great Personal Development Blogs…
For today’s post I’ve compiled a list of some must read personal development / productivity / life enhancing blogs that I frequently read myself! The list is in no particular order, but I have given 3 recommended readings per blog. Have a …
The changes I have made to improve my intelligence are: consistent sleep, nutritious foods and exercise. I also recommend praying and meditating to God, above all.
Keep in mind that too much stress causes people to lose their mental edge. Slow down, relax, be flexible and go about your business.
“Grin and Ignore it” is my new mantra!
nice words
concerning the fourth tip you gave ,
Our prophet Muhammad [Peace be upon him] told us alike advise:
he told that in the early morning we can find blessing
呵呵，帮你PP顶！也请来美服代理看看……
[...] 5 Simple Ways to Increase Your Intelligence [...]
You posted this two years ago…I hope you’re happy to see it is STILL being read and appreciated. I’ve just had long drown-out bout with the feeling that I am just the DUMBEST person in the world – I finally resorted to going on-line to see if I could find suggestions on how to improve my focus and increase my intelligence. I even thought that was dumb!! But I’m glad I found this information. There was nothing new and nothing I did not know already. But I did need the reminders. Everything you said was 100% true and I’m planning to put those points in action immediately. Thank You!
Good tips. Good eating habits is also invaluable. Paying attention to what go into your body makes it possible to practice most of the others.
to me my IQ level is not so good.your comment is convincing.hope for the best.take care
its very important the brain, my father says that and its true. i am only 6 years old and i already know 5 languages ( but not very well of course)because my father teach me what i need to do in order to be happy and to create a good future
ithink all the 5 tips are obviously vital to get good result.i really appreciate………
[...] from Pick Your Brain, Feb 15th, 2007 (courtesy of Mercola.com) Your brain needs exercise just like a muscle. If you use it often and in [...]
Nyc nd useful stuff that really helps me out in improving my intelligence. goood keep up
[...] the Brain: 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Intelligence. Very simple things we can all [...]
[...] Increase Your Intelligence [...]
[...] brain is often compared to a muscle and if you’re not giving all the parts of it a good, regular workout it’s going to [...]
By far i agree with you in all aspect, as a muslim we are encouraged to always reflect and think about life and its creation. So in essence this has been communicated to us 1400 years ago when the prophet(peace be upon him) came. The mind by far is the greatest privilege human being has been bestowed with. Had we been created with animal instinct as animals, by far now we would have been extinct. Yes am refuting Darwin theory as it never existed.
Hi,
Great article.
I think the TV really causes challenges. I am also conscious of watching it for too much. Really there is so much more that can be done.
Thanks
Matt
Love the site!
I have a very hard time focusing. Also since childhood, it’s always been a problem, also because I got the ADHD. (Even if you don’t believe in those psycological disorders). Everyone can make progress. Thats what I love about this site. Keep reminding me to not open to many doors at once. Start with one
Kris
[...] Originally posted at PickTheBarin.com [...]
Some excellent tips for improving productivity and intelligence
thanks
Spend time in prayer and learn to play a musical instrument; preferably guitar or keyboard (full 88 key keyboard) it would also help you from getting somewhat clinically depressed (although some musicians have depression) they have courses online that you can buy for an instrument as well and listen to the type of music you would like to play..very important
beautiful ,after years of trying things out i also have come to things you said