However upon further deliberation, the ‘smart’ness that they are referring to really hasn’t much to do with ability to relate to others, adapt to their environment, or furthering themselves as young people transitioning into an adult world. It’s more about ego.
Perhaps it’s time to consider different forms of ‘smartness’? We know that there is ‘book smart’ vs ‘real-world’ smart. There are those with a genius around certain topics and then there are those who have more of a general superior intellectual ability.
However it may be deeper than that. There is a certain type of adaptive intelligence that speaks to the persons facility in being at ease wherever they may be located with themselves and with others. The ability to work collaboratively within a team and with the focus on constructing a purposeful life.
Characterological aspects of personality equate into intelligence, as well; things like honesty, straightforwardness, heart felt and strong moral consciousness. These factors all enter into how smart a person truly is to those who experience her or him.
Take this test for yourself as a parent:
1. My kid is not only the smartest in class; my kid is one of the warmest, friendliest, and kind kids I know.
2. My kid smartly plays well with other kids and is a member of the team, not just an individual left standing.
3. My kid does not take all the credit for her or himself, rather shares it with the other team members that were part of the process.
Many families contact us because their kids are ‘smart’, yet not productive. We can help. And at the end of the day, we shall see who is the ‘smartest’ of them all! Those who ask for help or those who don’t?