How to be brilliant

How To Be Brilliant

They call me brilliant.

“They” are an assortment of friends, family, strangers I’ve met along the way and at least one of my sworn enemies.

To be clear, I’ve been called plenty of other things that aren’t nearly as flattering, but I’ll save that for another post (or my therapist).

As I think back on the times in my life when people have used the word brilliant to define me, I can’t help but to wonder what they really meant and why they chose a word that has such a strong, emotional resonance (whenever I heard this word, it was usually with unbridled enthusiasm).

We are all brilliant in our own way, of course. But we are also broken. How can we tap into our own brilliance and, more importantly, help others tap into their own brilliance?

The definition of brilliance is often used to mean exceptionally talented or intelligent. But brilliance has alternate meanings that we should focus on more as we all grapple with a world that is changing quicker than we can understand the impact of change, and a technological future that has us questioning whether we will accidentally destroy ourselves.

BRILLIANCE: (noun) intense brightness of light; luster; vividness

Recently, I had a conversation with an acquaintance who has been struggling to solve a problem involving a creative project she’s been working on. She had been struggling for weeks, exploring ideas and potential outcomes, to no avail. I suggested that she perform a certain task that might help her to discover the answer to her problem (or at the very least, help her to see other potential solutions). As it turns out, it was something she had considered only briefly and dismissed harshly the week before. But somehow, hearing the suggestion from me, and my logic about why it might be worth trying, sparked excitement in her. Somehow, it now made sense, whereas a week ago, when she dismissed the voice in her head giving her the same suggestion, it seemed ridiculous and a burden. She was so excited to try my suggestion that she couldn’t wait to get off the call to start working on the idea.

But before we ended the call, she said, “Charlie, you’re brilliant!!”

The times in my life when I have been called brilliant had far less to do with exceptional intelligence and far more to do with being an “intense bright light” for someone who struggled in darkness to find a solution to a problem that seemed to be so far away that it was beyond reach, when in reality, the solution was right in front of them all along. I’ve experienced this in my personal life and my work life.

The irony of the phone call I had with this acquaintance is that, although I had helped her with a vexing problem, I was struggling with my own crippling problem that day — stumbling in the dark, and hoping for a light that would guide me to the solution that seemed so elusive. But by putting aside my own issues momentarily, I was able to help her (which, of course, helped me too). It was an exercise in how to be brilliant when you really feel broken. Light that illuminates others, illuminates you too.

Did my suggestion help her to solve her problem in the end? I have no idea. She undoubtedly tried my suggestion. Here’s the thing, even if it did not lead her to the ultimate solution to her problem that she was seeking, the process undoubtedly helped her to see her problem differently and to open her field of vision to the possibilities of solutions. This is the definition of brilliance. And we are all capable of sharing our brilliance with others every day.

How to Be Brilliant, Even When You Feel Broken

With that in mind, here are three suggestions on how to be brilliant:

(1) Become a better listener. I say this to myself as much as I offer it as a suggestion to you. No matter how good of a listener you are, you can become better at listening (hearing what’s being said and, more importantly, what’s NOT being said). This is crucial because often, being brilliant only requires that you reflect a faint light struggling to shine through in the other person (you see the light when you listen well — the better you become at listening to people, the better you’ll become at seeing their brilliance). The key to becoming a better listener to others, is to become a better listener of yourself — listening and deferring to your own inner-voice. Becoming better at listening to your own voice is directly tied to your ability to listen effectively to others. I listen to my own voice (sometimes I tell it to shut-up — but I do try to become better at understanding my own intuition — the struggle is real).

(2) Embrace the idea of endless possibilities. Light cannot be limited. Light pierces darkness and illuminates that which can’t be seen. When we are thinking about solving our problems (or helping others) we often times restrict ourselves to what we can see (what has already been illuminated) rather than focusing on what is in the darkness (the unknown that may be uncomfortable or even scary). Brilliance requires widening our field of vision to consider what we ordinarily would dismiss. Whatever you are focusing on, it is likely not the thing you should be focusing on and may very will be causing you to narrow your focus in a way that undermines your own brilliance.

(3) Don’t just share your brilliance with others, become a mirror and reflect the brilliance of others so that their light shines even brighter and more intensely than if they had never met you. This isn’t easy. We’re not taught how to help other people to become brilliant, but we need this more than anything. One way to do this is, when helping someone with a problem, don’t offer them a solution. Offer them a tool or process by which they can discover the solution themselves. Whenever I have done this in my life, people have called me brilliant (they say it with enthusiasm and a spark of inspiration that is hard to explain). Why? Because ultimately, we don’t want to be given the answer to our problems, we want to discover the solutions for ourselves. Our reward system is wired to prefer solutions that arise from self-discovery. Give people the tools to help them ignite or see their own brilliance.

(4) It is what it is. Yes. I said I would only give you 3 suggestions, but this bonus fourth suggestion is itself an example of how to be brilliant — embrace the element of surprise and spontaneity and don’t be afraid to break rules that you have established for yourself (in other words, challenge your own sensibilities unapologetically and embrace the fallout from society that may come from this act of defiance). Be brilliant when and where it’s least expected (at work, during your morning commute, in the bathroom — yup, brilliance knows no bounds!).

Elderly People and Babies Know the Secret of Being Brilliant

The one person in my life who called me brilliant more than anyone else, and instilled in me the idea that I am brilliant was my grandmother who passed away three years ago. From the time I was a toddler until just before she passed she would say to me:

“You’re my shining star!”

I marveled at this as a little girl, not really understanding what she meant (other than it being a term of endearment and love). And even as a grown woman who has lived a full life I jokingly questioned my grandmother (who was 90 years old at the time) about this: “Grandma, have called me your shining star my entire life. I’m in my middle years now and I’ve been through a lot of wear and tear. The star isn’t shining quite as bright as it was when I was a little girl!”

She was defiant the way only a woman in her 90s can be. She shook her head and said, “Oh no! You’re still shining bright. You’re still my shining star and you always will be!”

7 Ways to be The Brilliant Person You’re Capable of Being

Reading time: 3 minutes

By Jessica Sweet

You’re striving for happiness, productivity and success, but how do you actually get there?

It seems we’re all built for a natural tendency towards wanting to be the best we can be.

Maybe you believe that life just happened and you lost your chance.

Or maybe you think you never really had it in you all along.

When doubt creeps in, it probably leaves you with a sour taste, and a hole in your soul that can never quite be repaired.

Because that goal was the point of it all. And if you can’t accomplish it, nothing really looks quite the same afterwards.

But it’s not too late.

You can still be the brilliant YOU you’re capable of being.

1. Want More ‘Brilliant’ In Your Life

No one lives with the intention of not living. No one says, “Today, I’m not going to live as if I’m only half here.”

Life just happens. We get tired, worn down, beaten and we lose our way.

At a certain point we’re no longer certain how to live anymore, and the circumstances of our lives seem so “real” that sometimes, the idea of living a life that feels vibrantly alive seems laughable.

The fact that your body is still breathing is not good enough. You need to step out of hum-drum reality and into life as it’s meant to be lived.

How can you demand more from yourself?

Never give up on you.

Remember that this is your one and only life. To make the best of it you must never give in to being resigned to things being good enough when they really are not.

It’s up to you to want to be more brilliant, and to be willing to work for it.

That fire in your belly is the first step that will get you there.

There’s more out there for you.

2. Say No To Wishing Time Away

Have you realized you have too many mornings you’ve dreaded, too many days you’ve white-knuckled, too much time you’ve wished away?

Those are the days of your life that you’re counting down, and if you’re not spending your time on things you like but on stuff you’re wishing away instead, it’s time for something to be different.

Change what you do with your days, and you’ll change how you feel about them.

This is a really LOUD warning from the universe to do something different.

3. Follow Your Bliss

If you don’t have much in your life that lights you up, or many priorities that feel like they were set by you, it’s time to reevaluate.

What would feel absolutely blissful to you?

What small steps can you take to get closer to things you love?

What can you work towards long term that you would find unbelievable to have in your life today?

When you follow your bliss, you don’t have to start with big chunks of bliss like finding the perfect day in the most beautiful setting in the world.

You don’t even have to work on breaking the bliss Richter scale.

Just spend more time finding tiny moments of bliss.

4. Invite More Fun and Excitement Into Your Life

Set new priorities and start saying no to things that you know you don’t want in your life and actively seeking the things that are fun and exciting to you.

When you invite fun and excitement into your life, you don’t have room for boredom, drudgery, or other things that go along with lingering between life and death.

When you’re having fun, you feel alive. So go out there and do whatever it is that excites you – whether it’s hang gliding or yard sale hunting – it’s up to you.

5. Get Way Outside Your Comfort Zone – On Things That Come Easy To You

You don’t always have to be outside your comfort zone doing things that don’t come naturally.

In fact, sometimes the best way to grow as a person is to get outside your comfort zone doing things that you’re good at. If you’re a singer, push yourself to sing harder pieces or in front of larger audiences. If you’re a chef, push yourself to make more difficult dishes.

Get even better at things that you already are good at.

6. Push Yourself – Hard

When life throws a situation at you that is tough, don’t shy away. You can handle it, even if you need help.

There’s no hiding behind your emotions or defenses, or running for cover away from the situation itself. To grow, to be brilliant, you must take on the experience and survive it.

7. Always Be Yourself

You can’t grow as a person if you – or the world – is not sure who you are. Let yourself show! Learning who you are, how brilliant you are, and how many people love you for being you is key to your growth and well-being.

Keep working on your growth and happiness, success, abundance and even your brilliance will follow!

Newsflash: [tweetthis]You are awesomely brilliant: today live from this truth.[/tweetthis]

Your turn…

What’s the most amazingly brilliant you imaginable? Can you take a step towards it today?

We’d love to hear all about it in the comments below, and who knows you might just spark a great idea for awesomeness for someone in our Live Purposefully Now Community. Do share. We need your input. 🙂

Encourage one another…

[success]Jessica Sweet is a career and small business coach for creative thinkers and passionate people who want to stop being bored at work and find out what is possible for them. You can find out more about her at www.wishingwellcoach.com. She has also written for The Huffington Post, The Brazen Careerist and been featured in places like CNBC, Business Insider and HayHouse Radio. You can also find her giggling with her two little girls.

How to be Brilliant Every day

Are some people just born ‘better’ than others when we talk about intelligence, talent or aptitude? What really makes brilliant people the way they are? Is it the creativity, the smartness or the prowess they exhibit? Is brilliance quantifiable?

Well, brilliance is not what you think – an inherent quality; but it is what a person is when he follows certain habits and qualities. Brilliance is something attainable, not a vogue definition of people who have some great inventions vouching for their talent. You can be brilliant every day, without wearing thick glasses and white hair that rarely get the touch of a comb – but you need to do a few things. And we tell you what.

11 simple ways to be brilliant everyday

To be brilliant every day, you have to start every day. These little things will not ask you a lot of your time and energy, but fit something from the below list religiously in your routine. To be a little smarter every day, you need to commit yourself to these habits of brilliant people.

1. Learn from everything around you

Everyone you meet, everything you go through is an opportunity for you to learn. Allow your everyday experiences to mentor you, find a way to learn from them. Pay attention to details, what people and situations try to convey, and you will know for yourself that the opportunities to learn are endless. Allow everything to shape your intelligence, and make you brilliant.

2. Write down your experiences

Writing is a beautiful way to reflect on what you learned. Not something creative, long or pretty, but something that lets you jot down things you have learned. Make it a routine to jot down, say 400 words in a writing pad about what you learned on a given day.

And as your brainpower gets a boost with it, the learning stays with you. It does not get simpler than this!

3. Read, read and read a lot

If we were to talk about reading, we’d have to cover an entire post! Reading is known to stimulate brain cells, increase vocabulary, reduce stress and improve memory. Additionally, people who are readers have stringer analytics minds, improved focus and better knowledge.

While there can be a debate on what should you read to be brilliant, start with something as simple as the daily newspaper. Graduate to your interests and there is no stopping!

4. Explain what you know to others

Albert Einstein’s line – “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough,” holds true for every person who wishes to join the elite brilliance club. If you can learn new information easily but cannot retain it or put it to use when desired, it is a fail. Make sure you stick with anything you learn – big or small.

When you can explain things to someone else, you have sure learned it well. Teaching others brings about a sense of satisfaction and is far more valuable than keeping on learning yourself.

5. Learn new languages, one at a time

Learning new languages boosts the cognitive process of the brain. The brains of bilingual speakers operate differently than the brains of people who know only one language. Apart from a heightened sense of confidence and improved memory, learning new languages can boost your brain power, enables you to multi-task and sharpens the mind.

And the added plus is improved career prospects. Brilliant people often know more than one language and have better thinking and decision-making capabilities.

6. Help people, invest your time

Being brilliant everyday requires you to be helping people, adding value to their lives. Enhancing the lives of others with your rich experience is something that brilliant people do every day. Instead of lofting out rude opinions, invest your time and energy in understanding them. Make sure that anyone who spends time with you feels encourages, happy and at peace.

Helping others has many mental and physical health benefits and can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being.

7. Take risks, do things out of the ordinary

If you dream big and have big aspirations, you have to take bigger risks as well. New things that look strange or simply irrelevant as of now actually connect in your life later on. The willingness to try new things, take chances, and jump risks are one important trait shared by all the brilliant people. Trying new things make up for new experiences and present one with new opportunities to learn and grow.

Calculated, safety risks are the path taken by normal people, the end of which transforms them into brilliant.

8. Remember, there are no mistakes, only lessons

Every mistake offers you an opportunity to learn, grow and be a better version of yourself. And when you learn from your mistake, it does not remain a mistake anymore. Every situation, no matter how grim it looks or sad it sounds can be used to your advantage.

Every experience should be treated as a qualification and with every new qualification; you get to grow brilliant, smarter and intelligent.

9. Look beyond certifications

Some people think that by enrolling themselves a Master’s degree in a subject they have come to know it very well. Some people have a lot of certifications but they do are unable to solve problems that other cannot figure out. They tend to complain about the problems like normal people.

But if you are brilliant, you will find a way to get rid of the problem, without having a degree or a certification. They recognize the problem, and until they don’t have it figured out, they do not speak anything on it. Be the latter.

10. Being brilliant needs you to work

People who are brilliant are past the set clocks and schedules. They put in time and effort to be smarter and intelligent than the average people. Of course, they like to laze around too, but they fight it out and work hard every day to make and show a difference. Brilliant people do not look for easy ways, pulling up their blankets when there is so much to learn and grow.

They show up, on time, every time.

Being brilliant everyday is a habit, an addiction of sorts. Once you get there, and endorphins kick in, you’d want to do it again, and again. They have the urge to be successful, and the fire to work hard. They have no qualms in accepting they are average people, but they know they can turn things around to be brilliant in the lot – because they have faith in themselves and their abilities.

What are you doing today to be brilliant?

7 Characteristics Of Brilliant People And How To Become One

Today I have the privilege of guest posting for an incredible blog, Daily Blog Tips.

Take some time to read the post and leave some comments. I know you guys are the best at that.

In that post I outline some tips for writing content that people love to share – content that spreads.

To take it a step further, some would say that writing life-changing content has to do with an innate brilliance. Some are just born “better” than others.

Forget about it. Brilliance may not be what you think. And it’s within your grasp.

Just the other day a friend of mine complimented me by saying I was “brilliant”. My knee-jerk reaction, was, “Why, thank you. Anything else you have to say?” 🙂

Then I thought, “I’m definitely NOT brilliant. Matter of fact, I’ve got to be the furthest apple from the brilliance tree.”

I kinda sucked on my SAT’s. I’m not really that creative or inventive. The only brilliance I possess has to do with the amount of food I can consume and still not be fat. And I digress…

“Brilliance” is a word reserved for 75 year old, wise men with white hair, or Seth Godin, or those who have a massive catalog of inventions.

What makes someone brilliant?

That got me thinking. What makes someone “brilliant?”

Can it be scientifically quantified or is it a vague generalization? Is it a high IQ score or inventing something or just wearing really thick glasses and refusing to comb your hair?

What is it about a person that makes them brilliant in our eyes?

I believe brilliance is attainable. Matter of fact, you can be brilliant.

Brilliant people have certain qualities; certain habits. You don’t need to be the smartest. You don’t need to ace your SAT. You don’t need to have white hair and thick glasses.

But you do need to do a few things.

1. Brilliant people solve problems

When you come up with a solution to something that others couldn’t figure out, you are seen as brilliant.

It doesn’t have to be on the scale of solving world hunger. It can be finding a new route that skips traffic or a better way to save money.

Brilliant people solve problems. They don’t just complain about the problems around them. They are solution-oriented. They recognize the problem and don’t speak until they’ve figured it out.

2. Brilliant people are helpful

Do you add value to people’s lives? When people spend time with you do they feel encouraged? If you want to be brilliant, start helping people.

Don’t just criticize and loft your opinion whenever you get the chance. Enhance the lives of others. Invest in people.

3. Brilliant people do the work

They put in the time. They show up consistently and fight laziness.

It’s not that they aren’t naturally lazy. They most likely are. But they fight it. They don’t give into what is easy. They work hard, show up every day, and make a difference.

4. Brilliant people are generous

They aren’t self absorbed. They live for a cause greater than themselves. They are making a difference beyond their own bank accounts.

They have a vision beyond themselves. They give and they give and they give. They recognize that life is more about what you give away than what you consume.

5. Brilliant people take risks

You could just stay put on the sidelines. You could just think about doing something great.

But if you want to be brilliant, you need to take the leap. Do what others only dream of. Step out and take risks. Brilliant people fail often because they don’t attempt what is safe. What sets them apart from the pack is that they keep going.

6. Brilliant people shine a light beyond themselves

By definition the word brilliant refers to a a striking, distinctive brightness. Brilliant people are those who stand for something larger than themselves.

They reflect the greatness and creativity of God.

7. Brilliant people don’t fit in a box

Truth is, brilliance is subjective. What’s brilliant to me may not be brilliant to you. What speaks to me may not speak to you.

That’s the beauty of art, the beauty of God’s creation. There is a place for your art, your creativity, and your unique perspective. While it may not be “brilliant” to everyone, it is brilliant to some.

And who wants to try and please everyone?

You can be brilliant. Start with a grand vision of your life and the world. You are here to make a difference, as cliche’d as that sounds. Stop watching, criticizing, complaining, wandering, and being lazy.

Apply these 7 characteristics. And go, do something brilliant today.

Question: What do you think it means to be brilliant? You can leave a comment by clicking here?

Thanks to my fantastic Twitter friends for their help with this post!

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Comments

Brialliant people see a problem and have the wisdom or discernment to use the appropriate resources (theirs or someone else’s [resources]) to help or fix.

David Santistevan says

I like that, Jason. They don’t just see the problem, they seek to fix it. Good stuff.

I also like dat jason

Everybody likes that!

I found your blog through your guest post on Daily Blog Tips (Congrats, btw). Excellent article there and here. Nice to “meet” you! I look forward to reading more of your posts.

David Santistevan says

Deb, thanks for reading! It’s great to meet you as well. I assume you are a blogger as well?

I love this post.

I qualify as brilliant due to consistently sloppy hair.

kathleen williams says

Pamela Woodward says

Karhleen williams,I Am sure you’ll sell or already have sold to help with the center.I am sad that no one replied to you.I get that too. I take it as,I’m much too deep for the people, I’m around.I will think of you,when I pray,I pray your dropseat jump suits go well✡Shalome my dear,I wish I could know your progress.

Just came across your blog David. Interesting read. I will share, with your permission with my networking group. But as I was reading and thinking about the word, “brilliant”, it occurred to me that the British use it in their everyday language. She was “brilliant” today. A form of excellence beyond the norm. And usually not the mensa type of brilliant. So yes, I think you’re correct in saying that we can all be brilliant at times. I would also suggest that “brilliant” people can fit in the box quite easily but have the ability to think outside the box more than most. As well, they are not deterred if their first attempt at solving a problem does not work out. They try again. This uniqueness allows them to accomplish so much more.

Allan, thanks so much for sharing. Really appreciate that. And you make a great point – brilliant people don’t give up. They learn from failure and keep trying.

I really love dis post because I wanna become a brilliant person

it is amazing I like that.from jamexjay50@gmail.com

It is a nice post.I see myself a brilliant man for I always want to look beyond my self.I am a middle class earner but have initiated community empowerment programs un-thought of by my wealthier counterparts in the community.
Thanks so much for your research.

Thanks for stopping by, Tenywa!

I LOVE THIS AND SURE IT IS REASONABLE THANKS

Hi i bet that all of dis coment make sens because of its point but james enjoysHi i bet that all of dis coment make sens because of its point but james enjoys it

Thanks you are absolutely correctly do the instead of being lazy

Thanks you are absolutely correctly do the work instead of being lazy

This is a lovely post I want to become a brilliant person

cecilia Asuming says

Thanks alot when I read this article very good & very interesting for me
I would like to say
Thank you very much

Being brilliant is a state of mind. It is about how you are perceived by others. ‘Brilliant’ people plan ahead strategically. They think about how each of their actions will affect the possible outcomes. They realize that it takes less energy and creates less stress to be prepared to take action no matter what happens. ‘Brilliant’ people are often proactive, again realizing that this approach takes less effort on your part, and then you have the luxury of sitting back and watching as others try to react to your actions.

i dont say any of this to say im brilliant, or that im some ‘beautiful mind’ – not at all. in fact, quite the opposite. but i do believe there are a lot of kids who may suffer from this same thing in what can only been seen as some form of A.D.D. or learning disability. perhaps if there were certain classes (and i dont mean special ed classes where that can embarass the kid and make him resent school that much more). but rather a normal class thats sole purpose is to figure and help out those of us who work differently w/out being exploited to our peers. a class where we are not on a time table, we’re not rusehd to finish a lesson plan just so it fits into the 9 week ciriculum schedule.

the key thing to remember for all teachers is: more school, staying late, to me, isnt the answer – its proper placement. no one student is the same. some of us want the help, need the help… u just cant force your way upon us. it will only turn us off. and that to me (& this is only my opinion) is probably a big reason for the high drop-out rate.

Hi jeff, I recognize a lot of wat you’re writing, I’m from Belgium, and over here they know “the problem” and some teachers are working around it. A lot of answers you can find reading about visual thinking and gifted (also high sensitive and introvert). Good luck …I know the feeling, I’m now 47, I’m familiar with my “problems”, know how to (re)act, but hey, it’s VERY difficult to live as a “crazy one” in this modern world.
Steve Job once had a speech about the crazy ones (the 3th type in the archetypes of the gifted, cfr. Marylou Kelly Streznewski), the most touchin’ for me: a square pen in the round holes of society.

Such an inspiring article. I will look forward to absorb and learn from this. Thank you.

what strategies to become brilliant?

Elisante Assecheck says

Many thanks. it was so helpful to me

Liz Mossad says

This was a great blog. I agree with all 7 traits. Sometimes because you try and fail, others want to make you feel inadequate. I say screw them. They have no idea what it is to be ‘brilliant’ enough to want to make it happen. This was wonderful, refreshing and affirming. Thank you so much.

Raden Anyss says

I’m 17 years old. I’m here because I don’t know what to do later on in my life but I do know that I want to be someone brilliant. Thank you 🙂

i love the seven characteristics atleast it will encourage someone that he or she could be brilliant.

this is so helpful cause im a kind of person, that is wanted to become a brilliant, cause i want to pursue my self and i dont want to give up until i can’t reach my goal…

brent tamatea says

Steve i dont see myself as brilliant at all yet i know that God that dwells within me is more than able to go beyond what i can think or imagine many times as i have worked on cars,and vintage engines i pray Lord help me to repair or fix this problem and he comes up with amazing creative solutions. he amazes me.People look at me and say thats clever the reality is it isnt me at all the more as i acknowledge him at work in my life the more he will work in me.I cant write songs or poetry not my gifting but over recent months the holy spirit has put words on my heart for songs that blows me away as he makes the impossible a reality….

Thank you David.

Thank you David!

I found this because I was looking for confirmation of something I share with young adults that work with a program I coordinate. We host weekly life skills with them with a goal of defining their brilliance. At yesterday’s life skill, another facilitator joined the team and I shared with her to help them see they’re brilliant and being smart is not the focus- being brilliant is. Brilliance provokes to action rather than just standing around saying I’m smart.

Your seven points were almost exactly what I had in mind, but had not taken the time to define it yet. So, THANK YOU!

wow i love your inspiring words.i want to become brilliant person too and i will follow all those steps.

Tshepo I’m not saying all of this to attack you or offend you in any type of way, Im taking the time to respond to your comment to hopefully change your life.

“Wow I love your inspiring words” Thats all you needed to say…. now think very deep on why YOU felt the need to add

” I want to become brilliant person too and I will follow all those steps”

See I believe our brain works just like a computer, It sees this world as 1’s and 0’s thats it, is it a zero or is it a one, Im going to physically act or im not going to physically act… So think of how your brain connects the word “I want”. You have wanted things your whole entire life, You have wanted to eat, you have wanted to run, you have wanted a million dollars. Now how many times did you want to run but then convinced yourself not to? how many times have you wanted to eat and at the physical moment you couldn’t? Now this only applys if you have done these things. But your the only one who knows how you programmed your mind to view the world “I want”.

Now take a look at “To become a brilliant person too” To me I see the brain “wanting” to be accepted, “wanting” to be apart of the group of brilliant people.

Now look at ” and I will follow all those steps” You have no idea if your going to follow all of these steps, telling these people who look at your comment wont ever help you to follow all of these steps so why is that part even necessary to even say or type? Because your brain “wants” and sometimes “needs” validation from anything or anyone.

But with everything said, Your main goal at this point is to pay more attention on what you say and how it will affect your brain and your future actions. Saying “And I will follow all those steps” Leaves room for disappointment if you don’t follow all of those steps, So you already gave your self a negative situation that may occur and set you back from your goals. Start programming your brain to 1’s and 0’s and start understanding yourself, whats made you fail in the past and how you need to do it differently to succeed in the future.

You wont ever become part of the brilliant group of people if you need there validation to become part of them, Because in the end they will look at you as a One or as a Zero, Your the only person… who can let everyone around you know that you are a 1, By showing them through action instead of empty promises.

Here is some quotes that are relevant to what im trying to say.

Albert Einstein:
“doing the same thing expecting different results is insanity”

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.”

This is brilliant,encouraging…ha will be ambitious hence.

ajegena paul washo says

hi David! What a beautiful article. Good job here, keep it up.

I think a person who can speak and think faster

This website was… how do you say it? Relevant!!
Finally I have found something that helped me. Thank you!

Rufus Godson says

I agree with you David over the 7 characteristic of brilliancy.THANKS man

With regard to the denial towards your friends compliment, brilliant people don’t accept their brilliance, they always believe there’s room for improvement and they’re often quite insecure at how they come off as brilliant when in fact, in their own mines they see themselves as mediocre, I may be paraphrasing a certain movie here (Whiplash) but truly the two most harmful words you could possibly hear as an aspiring anything are “good job”, the most brilliant people never heard those words, they heard something more along the lines of “Get a real job.” or “You’re crazy, that’ll never work!”, what makes them brilliant as that they’re so extremely certain, stubborn almost that everyone is wrong and that only they know they’re true potential, which is absolutely true. Anyway sorry for hijacking your page, I just want to leave the readers here with a quote that has completely shaped the way I choose to live by a somewhat controversial but nevertheless brilliant man – Steve Jobs, “Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… the ones who see things differently — they’re not fond of rules… You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can’t do is ignore them because they change things… they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” I hope this helped some of you, good luck on your journeys!

Jenny Grace Tangalin says

Thank you david for this 7 characteristics how become a brilliant person…..

Okay, a bit late for a reply.
First of all you can’t become brilliant. You are or you are not …it’s genetic!
Second of all: (a lot of) brilliant people don’t believe in God! There is no God! There’s no life after death! When the brain stops working it’s game over! TRUST ME! (There’s enough literature/”proof” …cfr. Stephen Hawkins)
Words from “a crazy one”.

In a way, the first part of your statement has truth to it. To be spiritually born again is to inherit the Spirit of Christ Jesus and get new spiritual DNA. He is brilliant! Therefore, those who TRUST IN HIM have an opportunity to become brilliant (here’s where we differ) as they renew their mind to that of God’s to match their new spirit.

Just as their is “enough literature/proof” for no existence of God, there is tons for His existence.

But the greatest proof for His existence is the one who knows Him/has intimacy with Him- Have you considered genuinely seeking The Truth for yourself?

I did and it led me right to Him! MANY others have taken this path who were right where you are. Lee Strobel “The Case for Christ” is just one example.

Natalee Scoresby says

Brilliant people believe in themselves and are patient. They are willing to try new methods which not only expands their experience level it also exposes them to new ideas.

Roselle Ann says

I really love this post. Your words are very entertaining and easy to understand ☺??

Brilliant people are always optimistic in whatever they are doing…

i love this pray to be called a brilliant girl one day but i think i have to fight laziness

Thanks for posting this kind of great message about brilliant people i have been pursuing my dream i will never stop After studying this page thanku so much

Vivek Jasodani says

Its a great article. Thank you for explaining the term “brilliant” in such a good way.This term is often misunderstood by people. I would love to read more articles from you.

brilliant people are always aspiring to achieve a certain goal

Nice one Jason,nice post

Often it is a brilliant post.

Thank you for sharing positive ideas. It has been vital ingredient in my mind toward feeding my vision.

Best regards,
Philipo F. Mrutu

Dear DAVID SANTISTEVAN,

Thank you in advance for posting this huge

Kind regards,
Philipo Mrutu

A brilliant person is someone who score the lowest mark in an aptitude test and still sit back to write another exam he’s not qualified and still tell every one his score when they wanted to mock it doesn’t matter the beginning the ending matters

Ernesto Botello says

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How to be a Brilliant Conversationalist

Professional Keynote Speaker, Author, Innovation Expert Read full profile

You probably shy away from some people on social occasions. Their conversations are tedious. You groan inwardly when they approach for you know that they are unremittingly dull company. Equally you may be fortunate enough to know some brilliant conversationalists who can enliven any discussion and who are excellent company whatever the circumstances. In what category would other people place you? How can you improve your conversational skills to become a welcome sight at every party and social event you attend? Here are some pointers that might help.

Ask Questions

Most people prefer to talk about themselves rather than hear about you, so asking questions is a great way to start and to refresh conversations. If you meet someone for the first time, start by asking simple, non-threatening questions about them, what they do, where they live etc. If you know someone moderately well then you should be aware of some of their interests so simple questions about those are good ways to start. As you get to know people better you can ask more searching and interesting questions. For example, ‘What is the biggest challenge you have ever faced in your life?’ or, ‘What is your greatest ambition?’

In a group similar considerations apply. You should generally start new conversations by throwing out questions rather than making statements or talking about things you have done. By asking questions you draw other people in and engage them. It is said that small minds talk about people, moderate minds talk about events and great minds talk about ideas. By all means start the conversation with some small talk but once it is going be prepared to introduce some questions relating to issues and ideas. We will discuss where to get the ideas shortly. Obviously you have to judge the nature of the group first so it is important to follow the second rule.

Listen

Great conversationalists are great listeners. Whether you are with one person or a group listen attentively. People like good listeners – wouldn’t you rather speak with someone who was interested in what you had to say rather than someone who looked bored and indifferent? Also, when you listen you learn. When you are speaking you are not learning anything new. Make a conscious effort to focus on what people say. Show that you are interested by asking questions that support and develop the conversation; ‘What do you mean exactly?’, ‘What happened next?’, ‘How did you feel about that?’

As you listen in a group, observe how people are reacting to the conversation. Are they engaged or ready for a change of topic? Is it time to move up from small talk to something more serious or time to lighten the mood with some humour? By listening and observing you can time your contribution to bolster the current conversation or move it forward to something new and interesting.

Give Compliments

Pay compliments whenever you sincerely can. If someone looks smart or has lost weight or has a stylish new haircut then show that you have noticed by giving a genuine compliment. ‘That colour really suits you.’ ‘You are looking very trim today.’ If they tell you about some achievement – say at work or by one of their children then congratulate them. As a matter of general courtesy and good manners you should always thank and compliment your host. Tell them what a great success the event is and how much you are enjoying it. Pick on some detail that they have chosen for the occasion that you like and tell them how well it has worked or how much you like it.

Keep up to date on topical issues

It is important to keep abreast of key current issues and topics in the news, entertainment, sports and politics. You should be ready to comment with questions, ideas, facts and opinions on the issues that other people are interested in. So see a few of the latest movies, read some of the most popular fiction and non-fiction, read the newspapers, watch the news, keep up with some major sports stories and watch some TV – but not too much. You do not need to slavishly follow every soap but if someone asks you what are your favourite TV programmes then you should be able to list some popular and serious programmes and justify what it is you like about them.

When discussing serious topics be prepared to oppose the conventional view and to take a rather provocative stance – even just for the sake of doing so. This will lead to a more interesting conversation than if you just agree with what is said. For example if everyone is against some political leader, then come to their defence with examples of strengths or achievements. Make your points with conviction, evidence and, if possible, humour. But in a social environment be careful not to become belligerent or cantankerous. In general it is best to avoid really sensitive or controversial topics especially if they risk offending people’s personal feelings.

Be Humorous

There is a place for serious discussion and there is a place for the light-hearted, so be ready to contribute in either environment. Witty comments tend to be spontaneous, clever and unexpected so being witty is not an easy skill to develop but there are some things you can do. Observe witty people in action and see how they contribute. Be bold enough to add your comments and witticisms and carefully watch reactions to see whether you are hitting the right note. Have a stock of funny stories. Do not force them into the conversation but have them ready when you get the cue or when there is a lull. Personal anecdotes relating to unusual experiences and misfortunes that befell you often go down well. Develop and practice some self-deprecating stories. Jokes, quotes and other people’s witty remarks can also be used sparingly and with acknowledgement. But beware of smutty or offensive stories in mixed company. Laugh at other people’s funny stories, even if you have heard them before, but never give away someone else’s punch line.

Speak Clearly

Say what you have to say with clarity and enthusiasm. Many people mumble their words, or rush through them or whisper so quietly that you have to strain to hear them. Good conversationalists are clear, articulate and easy to understand. They use interesting metaphors and visual images. Keep your sentences short and to the point. Don’t hog the floor. When you have made your point pass the conversation on by letting others speak. If there is a pause then draw someone in with a question.

Enjoy it

Be yourself, be natural and don’t try to be anything that you are not. Approach the situation with a positive attitude and tell yourself that you are going to have a good time and meet some interesting people. Relax, smile and enjoy the occasion. People prefer to mix with the happy and good-natured rather than the grumpy and miserable. By all means have a couple of drinks but not too many or you risk undoing all your good work!