Q. How can I become smarter?

A. I would need to know your definition of “smarter,” in order to answer this specifically. If you are talking about academic smarts as measured by IQ, studies have shown that it is possible to raise your IQ between 5-30 points if you continually challenge your brain with academic-type learning. Formal education is one way to do that. Some have done this on their own, however, by studying used SAT questions and practicing them. Entire paperback copies of SAT questions are easily available. Another way to become smarter is to read books on your topic of interest. You can also learn from watching others do things or exhibit behaviors that increase their success. Learn from the mistakes of others and do not make them all yourself. No one knows everything, and you cannot live long enough to make all the mistakes it is possible to make. Choose to be realistic, especially about the laws of the universe. Gravity is gravity no matter how much you would prefer it otherwise. There is a significant difference between being smart and being wise. Many residents of Planet Earth are viewed as “smart.” However, they continually make unwise personal choices that result in negative outcomes for themselves and to others. Raising your Emotional intelligence level and building good EQ skills can help you reduce stress and conflict in your life and improve all your relationships. IQ plus EQ equals smarter and wiser.