Having asked this question yesterday, it came a couple of times to my mind again today. I tried observing myself and realized, that what I described as intelligence was really my ability to let go in some way.
what i mean is, that in discussions in the classroom (I’m studying media and communication – so there’s a huge part dedicated to discussions) letting go leads me to somehow more risky, but on the other hand more insightful contributions.
and applying this to my abilities in writing, i guess it really depends how smart i want to appear vs. what i really have to say.
certainly, as mentioned by some of you guys (thanks at this point for your interesting input!), external variables like nutrition, lifestyle and stimulation, drug use greatly affects brain abilities. but also – thats my conclusion for today – it’s my attitude towards my abilities. even when thinking “privately” – that means actually thinking without expressing it in some form to the outer world – it really makes a difference, if i would just let go instead of focusing on some expectation of quality.
I especially like the answere of augustian, because it shows, that great thoughts come with great people. just 5 minutes ago i called a good friend of mine, with whom i always had inspiring conversations. he and 2 other guys were commilitones of mine and graduated a year ago – making me the only one of us left at university. our group of 4 did projects together in which we seemed to bring more performance than ever before. and the reason might be: ability to let go – as augustian can now, as his/her children are old enough and seem to have developed to healthy personalities. what a nice feeling that must be, cheerio!
so, to say it shortly: i guess it’s inspiring people who make the best out of us…
And to find more of them, being open makes us smart too.
Again: Thank you!