Someone once said and it’s often attributed to Einstein, although we don’t really know for sure; “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.’”

I just read an article about a Reddit thread where someone asked – What’s a subtle sign that someone is really intelligent? Many people chimed in and the answers were aligned with what I’ve noticed in the most successful, intelligent and positive people I work with:

1. They’re comfortable saying, “I don’t know”.
   The intelligent people say it all the time because they actually know when they don’t know. And that’s the key. It’s not about pretending but about learning. How can you learn if you don’t ask?
2. They can solve problems outside their field.
   When faced with something unfamiliar, they don’t freeze or panic. Instead, they stay curious, ask great questions, and look for patterns. You don’t have to pretend to be an expert in everything — you just have to know how to think. And curiosity is our greatest teacher.
3. They understand nuance.
   This is so valuable. They don’t rush to label things as “good” or “bad.” Instead, they can hold complexity without getting overwhelmed. That’s what makes them balanced when others jump to black-and-white conclusions.
4. They adapt how they communicate.
   Connection is everything! The intelligent people aren’t trying to impress you — they’re trying to connect with you. They adjust their energy and make others feel safe to engage. That’s when magic happens – when you feel that genuine connection.
5. They ask “stupid” questions without hesitation.
   I always say – there’s no such thing as a stupid question.
   The people I admire most aren’t afraid to ask — they know it’s the fastest way to learn. The real danger is pretending to know everything. And gosh, that looks real stupid, doesn’t it?
6. They can hold opposing views without needing to win.
   This one is very important. When we are not threatened by someone else’s perspective but are curious about it that’s when real progress happens. When you have inner confidence to disagree without shutting down or getting defensive.
7. They’re challenged, not threatened, by new ideas.
   I love this – they don’t get stuck defending their beliefs like a fortress. Instead, they test their thinking and evolve. As Eckhart Tolle reminds us— when ego is the tallest one in the room, it blocks more growth than anything else. I would add ego loves a costume and the peacock look is its favorite.

They don’t need to tell you they’re intelligent.
We all know the type — the ones who can’t stop trying to prove how clever they are, talk endlessly about themselves. But the truly intelligent people listen, connect dots, stay curious and don’t feel the need to endlessly show off.