What are your thoughts about intelligence? Do you think it is developed, acquired or inherited?

There are many theories about how intelligence evolved and the factors that contribute to higher
intelligence. And while the word is often spoken of in broad terms – there are many levels of intelligence
that can exist in all of us. For example, some have strong proclivity toward arts while others an easily
master mathematics. Some of us demonstrate high intelligence in interpersonal relationships, while
others have the capacity to hear music or deeply understand linguistics.
The point is that intelligence is not singular, but multidimensional. In society, we have become
accustomed to believing the only measure of aptitude is based on normative tests, behaviors or other
standards. Instead, we invite you to consider intelligence as the ability to acquire information and apply
it in new ways or to new situations. Using this definition, we see that intelligence is always changing,
expanding and growing.
As we interact with colleagues, it is important to remember that no one person can or will encompass all
levels of intelligence. Seek to understand the knowledge others have and then work intentionally to
incorporate new knowledge with your existing knowledge everyday – there you will find your own
intelligence continuing to evolve.
What aptitudes have you noticed in family, friends or colleagues? Keep an eye out for an upcoming
newsletter where we will discuss this further.