It is said that intelligent people are less social, and interestingly enough, their overall satisfaction seems to be unaffected by their more secluded way of life.
Do you ever find that you enjoy your own company more than being in a crowd? Maybe you’d rather spend time in the peace of nature than in the hustle and bustle of a big city? If you resonate with this, there’s no need to worry.
If you see yourself in this, you have nothing to worry about.
Many of us already know that intelligent people tend to be more anxious and more likely to experience social anxiety because they are more perceptive than the average person.
Surprisingly, a study published in the British Journal of Psychology suggests that highly intelligent people actually prefer their own company, and there’s an interesting reason behind it.
The study found a link between frequent social interaction and reduced life satisfaction among individuals who are generally more intelligent. Participants between the ages of 18 and 28 reported lower happiness levels when living in densely populated areas and socializing frequently with friends.
The researchers proposed that the “Savannah theory” explains modern happiness. Essentially, what made us happy in early human civilization still applies today. Smarter individuals adapt better to modern challenges and often choose to pursue more fulfilling lives on their own, rather than sticking to a tribe-like social structure.
Basically: Intelligent people prefer to socialize less because they do not need that feeling of tribal belonging to find meaning in their lives.
Intelligent individuals tend to opt for forging their own path rather than seeking belonging. Historically, humans lived in small groups where social interaction was key to survival. Today, intelligent people adapt by pursuing their own futures without necessarily adhering to group dynamics.
Studies show that self-reported happiness is often higher in smaller towns than in big cities, a phenomenon known as the “urban-rural happiness gradient.” Smaller communities offer more intimate, genuine connections. You get to know your neighbors and there’s a sense of community that can be lost in larger cities.
In smaller towns, the focus is on who you are and your relationships, rather than your achievements or appearance. Intelligent people often prioritize their own pursuits, but they, like most happy people, thrive in close, genuine relationships.
