Psychologists: only smarter-than-average people have this habit

Psychologists agree that certain habits speak volumes about our mental resources. Today’s topic is intriguing, as it touches on an everyday gesture that many people hide for reasons of modesty.

The “funny habit” that sustains thinking

Talking to yourself, in a low or clear voice, often surprises those around you. Yet this self-talk guides the stages of reasoning. Psychologists see it as a tool for structuring attention and clarifying a choice. In this way, this monologue sometimes serves as an inner dashboard.

Cognitive literature describes a useful effect on working memory. What’s more, verbalizing an instruction reduces instantaneous mental workload. Psychologists explain this by looping in key information. In short, speech becomes a concrete reference point for action.

Many people use them without saying so, on the street or in the office. So naming your goal out loud guides you through the task, step by step. Psychologists remind us that this practice requires intention and measure. But it’s no substitute for an organized strategy.

“Talking to yourself, when it’s intentional, acts as a cognitive compass that aligns attention, memory and action.”

Correlation is not destiny: caution and nuance

Saying that this habit is a sign of superior intelligence can lead to misunderstandings. So, it’s a possible clue, not a verdict. Psychologists emphasize that intelligence is multiple and contextual. Therefore, no single habit is sufficient to classify anyone.

Above all, the gesture reflects a self-regulatory style. What’s more, it can vary according to stress, experience and task. Psychologists therefore recommend observing it over time, without labelling it hastily. What’s more, silence or words can help, depending on the moment.

• Formulate the objective in 1 simple sentence before taking action.
• Repeat the 3 key steps during the task.
• Set the volume very low to keep it discreet.
• Cut off self-talk if it becomes ruminative.
• End with 2 evaluation words: “clear” / “to be reviewed”.

Why self-talk can help performance

Firstly, naming an action stabilizes attention. Secondly, it reduces the temptation to deviate towards a notification or noise. Psychologists speak of a “verbal anchor” that refocuses focus. The result is greater consistency on sequential tasks.

Secondly, verbalization supports executive functions. So planning, inhibiting distraction and adjusting one’s plan becomes simpler. Psychologists note that words guide micro-decisions. What’s more, this guidance speeds up the alignment between intention and action.

Finally, self-talk sometimes soothes emotion. Saying “breathe, one step at a time” eases the tension. Psychologists recommend short, specific, caring sentences. In short, precision counts more than words.

How to do it without social embarrassment

Context matters. So turning down the volume, articulating slowly and choosing a quiet corner helps. Psychologists suggest switching to whispering in shared spaces. On the other hand, a simple inner whisper will do the trick in meetings.

At home, you can ritualize the start of a task. What’s more, a 10-minute timer starts the momentum without pressure. Psychologists like these simple frameworks, which reduce avoidance. As a result, the habit remains light, useful and unobtrusive.

What the research says, and what it doesn’t say

Studies in cognitive psychology link self-talk to better performance on visual instructions. For example, reading instructions aloud sometimes speeds up the search for a word or object. Psychologists interpret this as tagging relevant information. The effect depends on the type of task and the clarity of the words used.

Results are not universal. Moreover, the quality of personal language makes a difference. Psychologists note that vague or negative language can slow down action. Consequently, it’s best to choose brief, concrete formulations.

Finally, let’s remember the framework: correlation, not strict causation. Not all people who talk to themselves are “above average”. Psychologists insist on the diversity of human talents. In short, this practice is a tool, not a label.

In real life, self-talk helps especially at moments of load. So, starting, rereading, checking – that’s where it shines. Psychologists encourage short trials, then simple evaluation. As a result, everyone adjusts according to their environment and comfort.

• psychologists