Forget IQ—a British neuroscientist reveals that the real secret to being a genius is knowing when to stop and rest

September 27, 2025
Forget IQ—a British neuroscientist reveals that the real secret to being a genius is knowing when to stop and rest

Joseph Jebelli argues that superintelligence goes beyond IQ itself. Bill Gates, during his involvement with Microsoft and the development of Internet Explorer, and Leonardo da Vinci are well-known examples of this superintelligence. In response, neuroscience emphasizes that the default mode network is a great development for ideas. Read on to learn more.

The question of becoming a genius

What if being a genius had less to do with your IQ score and more to do with at waht time you hit pause? That’s the debate made by British neuroscientist Joseph Jebelli, who is a profesional in mental health. According to Jebelli, raw intelligence isn’t the limiting trait of “superintelligence.” In its place, it’s the capacity to step back, rest, and give your brain the space it needs to create.

The reasons of resting fuels creativity

For a long time, society has stablished IQ as the last marker of human potential. However, Jebelli says science tells a diverse story. Newest investigation present the theory that when your brain isn’t center on a particular task, it doesn’t shut down—it changes gears.

In these moments, the brain is able to activate what scientists have alredy defined as the default mode network, a system that is defined as sparks brand new connections, organizes again information, and generates fresh insights. Far from time that is wasted, this mental downtime can be the birthplace of innovation.

The power—and risk—of solitude: get to know some histories

Some of history’s brightest minds relied on solitude to fuel breakthroughs. In first place, you must get to know Bill Gates an how he made a ritual of retreating to a secluded cabin twice a year during his time at Microsoft. He named it Think Week. Surrounded by stacks of books, he reflected, strategized, and eventually hatched game-changing ideas—like Internet Explorer. In addition, we must talk about Leonardo da Vinci, and the way he became famous for spending hours in silent contemplation. Accounts from his life describe him staring at tiny details of The Last Supper before ever touching a brush. It must be said that both men understood that stillness wasn’t wasted—it was a tool.

Nevertheless, solitude can be a double-edged sword. Left unchecked, it endangers turning into isolation. Jebelli recommends approaching it in moderation, weaving short moments of mindful quiet into everyday life rather than retreating from the world completel.

How to practice “genius downtime”: steps you should follow

You don’t need weeks in a cabin to spark creativity or renew yourself. Jebelli present simple practices that permit your brain to reset without overstimulation. Firstly, it’s recommend going for a walk or practicing yoga or meditation. Ind addition, take a short period of time for reading for pleasure. Finally, remind to excerse or engaging in a sport, because your brain will take all benefits for it.

The main goal isn’t to cut yourself off. On the other hand what you should know is to balance social interaction with intentional solitude. In doing so, you create space for your brain to reorganize and innovate. Sometimes can be difficult, but the time you get tha routine you will get great benefits.

The real secret to “superintelligence”

To think like Gates or da Vinci, you is not need an IQ above 140—or endless hours chained to a desk. True cognitive breakthroughs usually takes place when the mind has room to wander.

Sometimes, the smartest thing you can do is, in addition, the simplest: step back, breathe, and let your brain surprise you. There are many forms and ways of developing you brain and knowing more about yourself.