We are all much more similar in intelligence levels than most people believe. I think the people who grade better in the classroom might naturally be more inclined have more “book smarts,” but it’s not because they are smarter individuals. I think that it’s a learned skill that their environment has allowed them to pick up more quickly than others. Maybe their parents spent more time reading with them, asking them questions, letting them work through problems instead of just answering the questions for them or jumping in at the first sign of struggle. It’s how we focus and where we dedicate our time and energy.
But just because someone doesn’t earn good grades doesn’t mean they aren’t smart. They could be very good with people skills and be a great salesperson or even a great leader. They could be very good with their hands and be an amazing mechanic or carpenter. Meanwhile, the people with good grades may be lacking in those areas.
The point is, dot discredit someone’s intelligence just because they don’t see things the way you do. Where you have an advantage in certain areas, you’re likely lacking in others. Make sure to keep an open mind. You can learn something from anyone.