Get smarter with these simple activities

Most of us are wary of using our brains thinking we don't have it in us. I think it's not beyond the reach of any of us to get smarter. After all, we are all born with the same capabilities more or less. It is how we use our grey matter that makes a difference. This is not a scientific article talking about kinds of intelligence and the physiological and psychological factors influencing it. This is just a practical primer on strengthening and sharpening our minds.

1. Read books:
   
   Read extensively and passionately - anything - fiction, non-fiction, classics, thrillers, magazines, newspapers, comics.
   
   Believe me, nothing expands your mind like reading books. You imbibe various thought processes without you knowing it. Your instincts sharpen. You will increase your vocabulary and knowledge. You can converse about many topics and express yourself in choice words as well. Here's to smartness!!
   
   If you don't have much time for reading extensively, you can start with one book at a time, top-sellers in their category. If you are new to reading or don't enjoy the activity, still give it a shot. Have deadlines so you can focus on finishing reading what you've started.
2. Solve puzzles:
   
   Start with simple ones that just push you out of your comfort "thought zone". Progressively increase the complexity.
   
   Find a puzzle you cannot solve off the cuff, wrestle with your mind till you solve it.
   
   Solve puzzles while commuting to work or school, when taking bath, or when your mind tends to wander on celebrity gossip or shopping deals. You are doing yourself a great favor.
3. Play games:
   
   Games sharpen your reflexes.
   
   From brainy stuff like chess to action-filled Grand theft auto, games are bound to make your mind flexible and sharper.
4. Be a problem solver:
   
   When you are faced with a tough challenge at work, don't just run to the nearest go-to person and get a quick fix. Sit over it and try to figure it out yourself. Of course, exceptions apply, when the problem at hand needs immediate attention you have to put your own ambitions aside and get it fixed by whoever can solve it quick.

Try to incorporate these activities in your daily routine and be prepared for Greatness!