7 Habits That Make People Seem Less Intelligent

This post discusses some bad habits that people have which detract from their perceived intelligence/competence/credibility. It’s primarily geared toward behavior in professional settings, but it presents some interesting opportunities to ponder our behaviors relative to men and the groups we frequent with men we dig. It’s a super quick read that mentions habits that men and women both have but definitely gears the recommendations toward more typical displays/signs of masculine influence and power.

For example, I nod a whole lot, all the time, to encourage people to continue sharing as mentioned in the article. I’ve also found that people often assume (women included) I agree with them when the opposite could not be more true! I plan on doing much less nodding at work, and socially, but I’m not sure how to approach the nodding with my man now that I realize what he might be perceiving, what exactly I need to review about active listening. Does he know my nodding is encouragement, or does he see it as agreement? Does he like that I agree, or would he find it more exciting if I was slightly more sparing? There is a lot to think about!

Which of the discussed habits (either the recommended or admonished habits), or other unmentioned behaviors, do you find interesting? Which habits would you like to nip in the bud in some situations, and how will you replace them? Which habits might be helpful one on one with a man? What about when in his presence in other groups (his family, mutual friends, his coworkers) when interacting directly with him or with others as he watches? Can’t wait to read your thoughts, especially heading into all the family/social gatherings this holiday season!