How to become a genius: 6 simple but effective steps

For most people, the average IQ scores, they range somewhere between 80 and 119. We tend to think that this figure is always determines our mental potential, but this is not true. "Intelligence can be developed and quite noticeable - he saysYour IQ may not have Changed, but are you any Smarter? psychologist Brian Roche (Bryan Roche). - Those who argue that IQ does not change, in all my life really mean IQ test results, they really are quite stable. But this does not apply to the level of intelligence, it can grow. "

According to the books on the brain of the author David Shenk (David Shenk), intelligent beyond human of any age to determine, in fact, impossible. Each has the potential for genius.

The main thing - to get rid of the myth that giftedness is just innate.

"Faith in natural talent and limits opportunities is much easier for the mind, - writes David in the book "The genius in each of us» (The Genius in All of Us). - For example, do you think that did not become a great opera singer, because physically they can not become, you're just not so arranged. With these views the world seems more comfortable, uncontrollable. They are free from the burden of expectations. "

Intelligence - the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills. It includes the ability to reflect, to solve problems, to remember the information and find creative approaches. Get Smart is not just possible - it is achievable for you. But you need to be prepared to make an effort.

1. Train your memory

For example, with the help of special exercises. Cognitive psychologist Susan Jaeggi (Susanne Jaeggi) found that a game called "The task of N-back" increasesImproving fluid intelligence with training on working memory agile intellect. It is the ability to solve new problems that had never before encountered.

During the game you will impose visual or sound images. You need to determine whether you have encountered a way that at the moment before, a certain amount of steps back you. This amount is specified in the conditions tasks and substituted for N. For example, in the problem of "4-to-back" with the numbers you are looking for a number, which saw four steps back.

1 3 5 8 1 8 4 5 3 6 4 6 2 8 1 9 7 8 (Marked in bold numbers to be determined)

These games are available online and applications smartphone. Scientists say that regular exercise improves memory and logical thinking.

2. Be open to new perspectives

To do this, expand your circle of friends and listen to the viewpoints of others. Think of this as an exercise, which develops mental abilities and helps to notice new opportunities. remember, that train - means to expose yourself to new information. Meet people just contribute to this, especially when their views conflict with yours.

"Get rid of prejudices and listen to the arguments that you do not make sense - suggests Roche. - Try to find them in a sense. "

3. Look for sources of motivation

According to Schenk, for extraordinary achievements and brilliant works need motivation. "You have to want to achieve something so much that he will never give up. So much that they are ready will donate time, money, sleep, friendship, even reputation, "- says David.

The motivation may be positive and negative, External and internal. And its source can be anything - the inspiration, despair, regret and dreams. Look for their sources and develop.

4. do cardio

During which you breathe more often, your heart is beating too often. As a result, the brain receives more blood and oxygen. And this leadsNeurogenesis and exercise: past and future directions the formation of new nerve cells, including in the areas of the brain associated with memory and thinking.

Cardio also increase the production of neurotrophinsDementia prevention, intervention and care - proteins that support the viability of neurons. This improves the plasticity of the brain, which means that the memory and learning ability. In addition, through training in the brain releases more neurotransmitters, especially serotonin and norepinephrine, which positively influenceExercise and brain neurotransmission information processing and mood.

5. Play computer games

This is not just a way to spend time. scientists have discoveredPlaying Super Mario induces structural brain plasticityThat video games contribute to the formation of connections between neurons in certain brain regions. Within two months of 30 minutes one day, participants were playing Super Mario 64, and the other did not devote any time to video games. When the researchers compared the state of mind of the two groups, the gamers had more gray matter in the areas of the brain, which are responsible for spatial orientation, the formation of memories and strategic planning.

In addition, computer games help fight age-related changes in the brain.

researchers have provedVideo game training enhances cognitive control in older adults is a specially created 3D-racing game. Participants aged 65-85 years played it several times during the month. As a result, they have improved the ability to concentrate and short-term memory, which tend to deteriorate with age.

6. meditate

Scientists have proven that meditation, developing awareness increasesShort-term meditation training improves attention and self-regulation brain plasticity. Study participants over five days meditating for 20 minutes, focusing on the breath, visualization, and their posture. After that, they have improved care and agile intellect.

Besides meditation reduces"Mind the Trap": Mindfulness Practice Reduces Cognitive Rigidity cognitive rigidity, ie, inertia, inflexibility of thinking. Usually, we get used to use only one approach to the situation and look at it from the other side of us is difficult. We do not notice the simple new solutions, because thinking ceases to be flexible. mindfulness meditation learn to develop a "beginner's mind", that is all to look with new eyes.