This one trait is dominant in people with high IQs. It can be learned.

Stereotypically, a person with a high IQ is primarily associated with vast knowledge, brilliant replies, or logical observations. However, to express them, they first need to… listen. As it turns out, attentive listeners have above-average IQs. While this doesn't sound extraordinary, in practice it may not be so simple. Why?

Being a good listener these days isn't so straightforward. It's not enough to simply "listen" to the other person; it's also about actively participating in the entire communication process. It means engaging in the conversation to the point where you benefit from it yourself. You can discern facts that others don't, gather information, process it, draw conclusions , and still be able to adequately answer questions and express your opinion. What could be so difficult about this?

People with high IQs can utilize a wide variety of information, especially information gleaned from ordinary conversation. They are typically good listeners because they strive to engage in conversation and are able to remain attentive throughout. This can be challenging, especially since it requires self-control, objectivity, and sometimes even detachment and patience. It's not enough to simply absorb information silently; one must also be able to process and utilize it.

The greatest challenge can be "being present" during a conversation, not interrupting the other person or expressing hasty or hasty opinions. A good listener absorbs information, filters it, and after a brief analysis, is able to ask pertinent questions or draw conclusions that enrich the conversation on both sides. People with a high IQ can think holistically and with emotional distance, allowing them to better understand a situation and judge it based on facts rather than feelings and impressions.

Psychologists have long recognized a certain correlation between attentive listening, empathy, and critical thinking. Many visionaries, renowned thinkers, and leaders have based their success on mindfulness during conversations. Intelligent participation in discussions positively impacts brain development and function. It teaches us to look at a topic from a different perspective and allows for diverse points of view.

The ability to "pick" nuances from a conversation can broaden horizons and draw conclusions, allowing for creative and strategic thinking. Gathering as many facts as possible allows for a given problem to be assessed as objectively as possible, making it easier to find a solution. This approach enriches thinking and teaches open-mindedness, leading to the emergence of ideas that can be fruitful in many areas.

Experts say yes! It's not only a personality development exercise, but also a great brain-stimulating exercise that can be very beneficial. You can start practicing mindful listening at home by taking dedicated listening courses (yes, there are those), listening carefully to podcasts, pausing mid-session and mentally paraphrasing what you've heard, or practicing simple everyday conversations with loved ones.

When engaging in dialogue with another person, it's also worth focusing on a few factors that will improve the comfort of the discussion. Avoid using electronic devices, try to maintain eye contact, allow the other person to finish their thoughts, don't judge the situation until you have gathered enough facts, don't change the subject, ask "guidance questions" to better understand the context, and simply... listen.