One dilemma that has always intrigued us is which prevails between wisdom vs intelligence?
People have debated for decades who would be more successful in life: a wise man or an intelligent man. Which gift is more helpful?
Well, we’re going to break down the difference between intelligence and wisdom to give you some insight on the matter!
What Is Wisdom vs. Intelligence?
Intelligence can be defined as the ability to acquire and apply the information you collect. Wisdom, on the other hand, is directly associated with experience as opposed to cold, hard facts. It’s more complex and personal. When we draw on wisdom, we’re using a rich history of experience to help us make decisions. Intelligence can be improved, but wisdom must be built.
As you can see, wisdom and intellect are two different things. More or less, we have them both.
Yes, sometimes one is more prominent than the other. But it really all depends on whether we are more interested in collecting knowledge or collecting experiences.
What Is More Important – Wisdom or Intelligence?
In the understanding which is more important: wisdom or intelligence, it’s beneficial to learn what helps you better deal with novel situations, relate to people better, and influences your overall success in life.
As was mentioned before, intelligence is your brain’s ability to apply knowledge.
Some people have an enormous amount of knowledge, but what they lack is the wisdom needed to cope with ordinary daily tasks. We might call this: intelligence without wisdom.
On the other hand, there are those who are highly efficient in solving complicated issues but haven’t got any factual knowledge to accompany their ideas. These would be high wisdom: low intelligence individuals.
Is It Better to Be Smart or Wise?
So, is it better to be smart or wise? The short answer is: a balance between wisdom and intelligence is key. Everyone has both abilities, but not all of us are aware of their presence.
Your lifestyle, profession, and habits play an important role in building your skills and cognitive abilities. Everyone has different strengths that are naturally encouraged by their environment. After all, what you practice on a daily basis is bound to improve, right?
If you want a good piece of advice, here’s something to keep in mind:
The easiest way to achieve a successful balance between wisdom and intellect is by applying the knowledge you acquire in everyday situations. This is how you can build a healthy balance between your experiences and knowledge.
It’s not how smart you are, but how are you smart.
– Jim Kwik
How Do You Become Wise?
You may hear that wisdom comes with age and experience and that there are no wise young people. We strongly disagree!
Young people are fast learners when it comes to new ideas and technologies. This helps them develop different forms of wisdom they can use in their everyday lives.
And let’s not forget the important role that motivation plays in gaining intellect and experience. The more motivated you are to learn, the quicker you are to adapt.
Here are three ways that you can help yourself become wiser:
1. Chase new experiences
Go out into the world and explore the unknown. Don’t be afraid to experiment or make mistakes. That’s what this process is all about.
The more you experience, the more wisdom you’ll gain.
2. Become a self-expert
You might be surprised by just how little people truly know about themselves.
This form of wisdom is also referred to as intrapersonal intelligence. Or: the intelligence of the self.
Spend some time in your own company. Meditate. Go for a walk. Journal. Take time to get to know who you are on a deeper and more intrinsic level.
3. Learn to recognize the shades of grey
Those with true wisdom don’t make snap judgments. They take the time to evaluate the situation at hand.
They also don’t see the world in shades of black and white. They understand that there are variations and uncertainty. Learn to recognize the varying shades of grey before you make a decision or offer advice.
Build your own wisdom and intellect by observing how other people learn, react, and grow. Each experience can help you upgrade your mind.
