If You’re a Loner, You’re Not Alone!
Does the thought of a loud party make you want to crawl under your covers with a good book? Do your parents worry about your number of friends? The next time someone questions your social choices, you can confidently tell them that science is on your side.
Intelligent People: The Social Misfits Who Are Just Fine
It’s a well-known fact that intelligent people often experience higher levels of anxiety, including social anxiety. Being more perceptive can sometimes lead to discomfort in social situations. But, a study published in the British Journal of Psychology reveals that highly intelligent individuals actually prefer solitude, and here’s why.
Research shows that there’s a link between frequent social interactions and decreased life satisfaction among the highly intelligent. Essentially, the smarter you are, the less likely you are to derive happiness from constant socializing.
The study, which surveyed adults aged 18 to 28, found that people living in densely populated areas reported lower levels of happiness. The same trend was observed among individuals with frequent social engagements.
Enter the Savannah Theory
The Savannah Theory suggests that our current happiness is deeply rooted in our ancient past. Back in the days of hunter-gatherers, humans thrived in smaller, tight-knit groups because social interaction was vital for survival. Fast forward to today, intelligent people adapt to modern challenges differently — they find fulfillment outside of traditional social structures.
Simply put, intelligent individuals don’t need social acceptance to feel content. They’re the ones who blaze their own trails, prioritizing personal growth over group belonging.
Why Smaller Towns Sometimes Make Bigger Smiles
The “urban-rural happiness gradient” is a fancy way of saying that people tend to be happier in smaller towns rather than big cities. In a smaller community, there’s a stronger sense of belonging, genuine connections, and less focus on superficial achievements.
In small towns, you’re more than just another face in the crowd. You have the chance to build real relationships with your neighbors — even if it’s just a nod at the local deli. This sense of community fosters happiness in both intelligent individuals and the broader population.
So, why do intelligent people thrive in these environments? They appreciate deeper, more meaningful relationships, and they don’t feel the need to constantly socialize to find happiness.
The Bottom Line
If you prefer a few close friends over a large social network, you’re in good company. Highly intelligent people often find their happiness in solitude or in tight-knit communities where meaningful interactions take precedence. The next time someone questions your social habits, just remember: less really is more.
