Not all intelligence is measured in test scores or diplomas. In fact, many highly intelligent people express their smarts not through flashy achievements, but in the quiet, intentional ways they shape their lives. It turns out that what they choose not to do—what they don’t watch, follow, or consume—can say just as much about their intelligence as what they do.
Research shows that people with high IQs often operate with a different set of priorities. They think critically, stay emotionally grounded, and consciously avoid habits, media, and trends that waste their time or harm their peace of mind.
Let’s dive into the 11 curious things intelligent people often opt out of—and why that might be a smart move for anyone, regardless of their IQ score.
1. Scripted Reality Shows That Pretend to Be “Real”
You know the ones—wild love triangles, over-the-top drama, and a whole lot of shouting for no real reason. Scripted reality TV is designed to keep people glued to the screen, but for people with high IQs, the manufactured chaos often falls flat.
That doesn’t mean smart people don’t watch any reality TV. Many are actually intrigued by shows that reveal patterns of human behavior—like the social dynamics on Survivor or the relationship quirks in Love Is Blind. But they watch with a curious lens, not just for entertainment. They’re less interested in the drama and more fascinated by the psychology behind it.
In other words, they don’t mind watching people get roses—so long as they can learn something from it.
2. Unnecessary Online Drama
From celebrity feuds to endless Reddit battles, the internet is bursting with conflict—most of it avoidable. Highly intelligent individuals typically steer clear of this virtual noise. They’re rarely drawn into comment wars or gossip-fueled arguments.
Why? Because they value their time and emotional bandwidth. They recognize that most online drama adds zero real value to their lives—and often just leaves them feeling drained or distracted.
Instead, they choose to engage in conversations that offer growth, meaning, or a new perspective. That juicy argument about a pop star’s new boyfriend? Probably not making the cut.
Read more: Things Highly Intelligent People Unknowingly Do When Bored: Psychology
3. Clickbait, Propaganda, and Fake News
Smart people are picky about their information sources. In an age where headlines are designed to spark fear, outrage, or clicks, people with high IQs lean on logic and critical thinking to sniff out what’s real.
Studies suggest they’re less likely to fall for hoaxes, conspiracy theories, or emotionally manipulative content because they analyze before they believe. They don’t just read the headline—they question the source, check for bias, and think about the bigger picture.
And they don’t share articles just because they’re trending. They ask: “Is this accurate? Or is it just trying to stir the pot?”
4. Chasing Every New Trend
Trends are fun. Whether it’s the latest TikTok dance, cottagecore aesthetic, or “hot girl walk” lifestyle, trends help people feel connected and current. But intelligent people tend to view trends with a healthy amount of distance.
That doesn’t mean they avoid all trends—it means they’re selective. Instead of letting a trend dictate their style, opinions, or identity, they ask whether it genuinely fits into their values and goals.
In short: they’re not trend-proof, but they are trend-aware. They follow what inspires them, not what pressures them.
5. Rigid Social Norms That Don’t Make Sense
“Go to college. Get a job. Get married. Buy a house. Have kids.” Society often pushes a linear idea of success—but highly intelligent people frequently question that path.
They understand that happiness doesn’t come from checking boxes. If traditional career routes or social milestones don’t align with their values, they’re not afraid to forge their own path—maybe starting a business, living unconventionally, or rejecting outdated relationship norms.
They also reflect on their own habits. If something in their personal life starts to feel stale or performative, they’re the first to ask, “Is this still serving me?”
6. Herd Mentality and Groupthink
When everyone starts agreeing without questioning—whether in a boardroom or a comment section—something is probably off. Smart people tend to avoid echo chambers and groupthink. They value their ability to think independently, even if it means going against the grain.
This doesn’t mean they reject collaboration. Quite the opposite: they work well in teams, but they bring their own perspective and aren’t afraid to challenge the consensus if something doesn’t feel right.
They’re the ones asking, “But have we considered the alternative?” even when it’s unpopular.
7. Goals That Lack Depth or Purpose
Some people set goals to look good on paper. “I want to run a marathon!” “I want to be a millionaire!” But if the goal lacks deeper personal meaning, it can turn into an empty performance.
People with high IQs often focus less on the goal itself and more on the reason behind it. They seek progress, not prestige. They don’t need to post about their ambitions online for validation. They’d rather quietly build consistent habits that matter to them—not to impress others.
Their goals tend to be more about growth and less about glory.
8. Mindless Junk Food (Most of the Time)
Highly intelligent people aren’t immune to a midnight snack craving, but research shows they’re more likely to make mindful dietary choices. They understand how food affects brain function, energy, and emotional regulation.
That doesn’t mean their fridge is full of kale and quinoa 24/7—but they try to eat in ways that support mental clarity and long-term health. They also see meal planning and nutrition as part of a larger discipline—like sleep, exercise, and stress management.
And yes, they probably know how to make a mean smoothie.
Read more: Highly Intelligent People Are Less Satisfied By Having Friends, And There’s A Fascinating Reason Why
9. Passive, Numbing Entertainment
There’s a difference between unwinding and zoning out. High-IQ individuals tend to be more mindful about how they relax. They might read, build something, take a walk, or enjoy quiet time. Scrolling endlessly through social media or bingeing 10 hours of bland TV? Not their usual choice.
When they do consume entertainment, they often pick things that engage their curiosity or expand their worldview—be it a documentary, a thoughtful podcast, or a beautifully written novel.
Rest doesn’t have to mean mindlessness. For them, it often means meaningful stillness.
10. Consumer Culture and Emotional Spending
Impulse shopping. Designer logos. Buying stuff to feel “better.” These are all hallmarks of consumer culture—and intelligent people often see through it.
Because of their emotional awareness, they tend to avoid using material things as emotional band-aids. They understand the psychology behind marketing, and they’re less likely to fall for tricks that tap into fear of missing out or insecurity.
Instead, they aim to live more intentionally—investing in what matters, not just what sparkles.
11. Excessive Social Media Use
Smart people aren’t necessarily off the grid—but they are conscious of how digital spaces impact their mood and mindset. They know that scrolling through curated lives can lead to comparison, anxiety, or wasted hours.
That’s why they often set boundaries: screen-free mornings, social detox days, or mindful scrolling habits. They use social media as a tool, not a crutch.
They’re also more likely to engage in offline activities that help them process emotions—like journaling, meditating, talking with close friends, or even going to therapy.
Read more: Social Rules That Highly Intelligent People Quietly Ignore
So, What Can We Learn from This?
This isn’t about being “better” than anyone else. It’s not about perfection or judgment. It’s about intention. Highly intelligent people tend to make conscious choices about how they spend their time, attention, and energy.
They say “no” more often—not because they’re boring or anti-fun, but because they’re tuned in to what genuinely serves their growth, peace of mind, and sense of purpose.
You don’t need a high IQ to start thinking this way. It starts with one question:
“Is this adding value to my life—or just filling space?”
If more of us asked that regularly, who knows? Maybe we’d all get a little smarter in the ways that truly count.
