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The Real Ones Are Isolated

Why Geniuses Choose Solitude: The Hidden Power of Being Alone

By Muhammad Waseem Published about a year ago 3 min read
The Real Ones Are Isolated
Photo by Deleece Cook on Unsplash

The Smarter a Person Is, the Less Social They Are Likely to Be.

Have you ever wondered why some of the most brilliant minds in history were known to be loners? This phenomenon has intrigued psychologists and philosophers for centuries. Arthur Schopenhauer, the German philosopher, famously remarked:

“If brilliant minds could work together to create more like themselves, this brilliance might spread across the world. But unfortunately, most people are not smart, and no matter how many fools come together, they cannot create a single intelligent person.”

Intelligence, in many ways, is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it offers insights, creativity, and innovation, but on the other, it often isolates people from the crowd.

The Solitude of the Mind

Intelligent individuals often seek peace of mind and simplicity in life. They avoid unnecessary conflicts and pointless chatter. For them, silence isn’t just golden—it’s priceless. One study published in Psychological Bulletin even found that intelligent people experience less happiness in highly social environments. They value quality over quantity when it comes to relationships.

Take Albert Einstein as an example. This scientific genius, who changed the world with his theory of relativity, often found solace in solitude.

He once said:

“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.”



Einstein wasn’t antisocial; he was selectively social. He cherished conversations that added value to his thoughts but avoided small talk. His habit of walking alone, thinking deeply, is a testament to how solitude fuels creativity.

A Simpler Life, a Sharper Mind

Intelligent people don’t complicate their lives unnecessarily. They keep their priorities straight and focus on meaningful pursuits. Imagine Isaac Newton, who discovered gravity while sitting under a tree—alone. What if he had been busy gossiping at a tea party instead? Perhaps the story of the falling apple would never have reached us.

Newton’s reclusive nature wasn’t a flaw but a feature of his genius. His quiet hours of contemplation were what allowed him to write Principia Mathematica, one of the most important works in the history of science. Newton’s example reminds us that:

“Sometimes, stepping away from the noise is the best way to hear the sound of your own genius.”



Why Expectations Hurt

Truly wise individuals expect little from others. They don’t rely on external validation or companionship to feel fulfilled. Instead, they draw satisfaction from their own achievements and thoughts. This mindset protects them from disappointment and helps them remain emotionally stable.

Consider Nikola Tesla, the inventor of alternating current and numerous other revolutionary technologies. Tesla famously worked alone, dedicating himself to his projects. His lack of strong social ties wasn’t due to arrogance but because he had lofty goals that most couldn’t comprehend. Tesla once remarked:

“Be alone, that is the secret of invention. Be alone, that is when ideas are born.”



Tesla’s story shows that loneliness isn’t always about isolation—it’s about creating space for innovation.

A Story to Remember

Let’s dive into a humorous yet thought-provoking story about a fictional character named Alex, whose intelligence set him apart.

Alex was a software engineer with a knack for solving the most complex problems. His colleagues often joked that he was like a computer himself—brilliant but emotionless. Alex didn’t join after-work hangouts or office parties. Instead, he spent his evenings tinkering with his side project: an AI that could write poetry.

One day, his boss invited him to a team retreat in the mountains. Reluctantly, Alex joined. While everyone else played games and sang songs, Alex wandered into the forest with his laptop. Hours later, he returned with an astonishing announcement:
“I’ve just coded an AI that creates haikus inspired by the beauty of nature!”

His team was stunned. While they were busy socialising, Alex had achieved something extraordinary. His AI project became a sensation, proving that sometimes solitude isn’t loneliness—it’s productivity in disguise.


What We Can Learn

The idea that "intelligence leads to solitude" doesn’t mean that intelligent people dislike others. Instead, they find joy in meaningful activities and cherish connections that truly matter. They don’t waste time on shallow interactions. Their loneliness is often misunderstood, but in reality, it’s a reflection of their deeper connection with their inner world.

Why You Should Follow Genius

If you’ve ever felt like stepping back from the noise of the world to think, reflect, or create, you’re not alone. Embrace your moments of solitude, for they might lead to your greatest ideas.

"Schopenhauer suggested, let your brilliance inspire others, even if you walk a lonely path."

Follow this space for more stories, insights, and wisdom about extraordinary minds that change the world!

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About the Creator

Muhammad Waseem

Be the part of what I write !

Be the part of what I envision!

Appreciate the writ-ups , not me !

Love you all 😊

Reader insights

Outstanding

Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!

Top insight

  1. Heartfelt and relatable

    The story invoked strong personal emotions

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  • Qurat ul Ainabout a year ago

    I love the clarity and depth of your writing!!

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