Einstein's Five Levels of Intelligence
The counterintuitive truth that separates good thinkers from great ones.
Three things to think about
Einstein identified five levels of cognitive prowess: Smart, Intelligent, Brilliant, Genius, and — Simple. The most effective communicators speak with simple clarity.
Our brains love making things complicated. Complexity feels impressive.
Mental gymnastics that are intelligent-feeling might being doing you more harm than good.
Two questions to ask yourself
What complex project or idea are you overcomplicating right now because you’re lost in the intricate details?
How would you explain it to a 10 year old?
One thing to try this week
Take one thing you've been overthinking and force yourself to explain it in 25 words or less. How does that change the way you understand it?