#MondayMotivation: 5 ways to increase your intelligence

According to researcher Carol Dweck, the attitude and belief that you can't learn something is part of a mindset, and it's something that we can change. When it comes to our mindset, people fall into one of two predictable patterns: they learn to adopt either a growth mindset or a fixed mindset. Below are five ways to increase your intelligence.

1. Seek novelty

Seek out new activities, experiences and information. Learn an instrument. Take an art class. Go to a museum. Learn a new subject. When you expose yourself to new things, you create neural connections that build on each other and create an optimal environment for learning.

2. Challenge yourself

Efficiency hinders cognitive growth. As soon as you start to become proficient in a subject or activity, move on to the next one. Always be challenged by what you are doing. This keeps your brain constantly making new neural connections, creating an optimal environment for learning.

3. Think creatively

Engage both your left and right hemispheres. Think across a wide range of subjects. Make connections between remote ideas. Alternate between conventional and unconventional thinking. Look for unorthodox solutions.

4. Do things the hard way

Your brain needs exercise just like your body. Technology can weaken your cognitive abilities if relied on too much. Use your memory instead of GPS. Use your spelling skills instead of auto correct. Do the math in your head instead of reaching for the calculator.

5. Network

Exposing yourself to a variety of people gives you opportunities to see problems from a new perspective, or offer insights in ways that you hadn't thought of before. This helps you to think in new and different ways.