How to Talk to Geniuses

If there is ever a time when it's not neurotic to worry about whether you "sound stupid," it's when you're talking to a genius, especially if you're not exactly a member of Mensa yourself. But don't let a high IQ fluster you. By understanding how geniuses think, you can speak your mind to a brainiac and still sound smart.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Remember, geniuses aren't so different from non-genius folk. They have the same needs: food, water, shelter, sleep and human companionship. What tends to throw average-brained people off is the way they think about the world--and thus, the way they talk about it--isn't typical. Add in the fact that most of us are intimidated by people whose IQs are twice what ours are, and you've got a recipe for awkward interaction.
2. Understand that geniuses see the world from multiple angles, rather than just one. They tend to speak in metaphors that you might have trouble following if you tend to be a literal thinker. Brilliance sometimes means less than brilliant social skills as well, so the genius you're conversing with might not even realize, or care, that you don't get his metaphors.
3. Be a good listener rather than monopolizing the conversation. Politely ask for clarification when your genius friend is being unclear. Relax, even if all this genius talk is over your head; you've got your strengths too, and perhaps speaking so that others "get" you is a talent you have that your companion might not share.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try to act more "gifted" than you actually are. A true genius will see right through you, and you'll come across as insecure rather than brilliant.