Science says…
We all have good hair days and bad hair days, and I’m not just talking about hair. When we leave the house we’re either imbuing confidence and charisma or we’re feeling kind of meh, right? The reasons why are sometimes in our control, but mostly it’s just a feeling. It’s that moment that you look in the mirror and think “Damn I look ______.”
Now, the subtle science of human perception has brought us closer to understanding how we can appear a little bit more intelligent when we’re out in the world. Good hair day or bad.
How to convey brilliance
Open your eyes
People who open their eyes wider and don’t appear to be drifting off or bored tend to be perceived as more intelligent.
Smile a little
Studies have found that we connect small smiles to intelligence as well.
Basically, just look happy and awake and people will think you’re smarter.
Wear glasses
Especially thick glasses. It’s not just a perception thing either. A study at University of Melbourne’s Centre for Eye Research recently connected short sightedness with intelligence.
Take care of yourself
Appearances matter and we associate a good looking person with a lot of positive behaviors. People with thin faces tend to be perceived as smarter, so let that be your inspiration to hit the gym.
Don’t swear
Studies have shown that people who swear are perceived as less intelligent and less mature by prospective employers.
Skip the Sangria
Drinking can make you appear less intelligent according to a study by researchers at the University of Michigan. They call it the “Imbibing idiot bias,” which means we think drinkers are dummies, even if we’re indulging ourselves.
Notice your speech
Speak slowly and thoughtfully. Abolish the word like, and know what big words mean. Some people believe that speaking quickly is the path to being seen as more intelligent like nerds on TV (think Chuck or Sheldon). But clear speech is the path to appearing smarter.
Rep your middle name
By using your middle initial in a professional setting, people see you as more accomplished and smarter according to research published in the European Journal of Social Psychology.
Shine bright
[clickToTweet tweet=”These are daily habits can help you become a smarter, more accomplished person.” quote=”These aren’t just tricks, these are daily habits that with practice can help you become a smarter, more accomplished person.”]
Take care of yourself, use some of these tricks, and your exterior actions could affect your inner confidence turning that bad hair day into a really really good one.
#goodhairday
C. L. Brenton is a staff writer at The American Genius. She loves writing about all things, she’s even won some contests doing it! For everything C. L. check out her website
