Hyper-observant people don’t need to have chameleon-like eyes to notice the world around them. They’re just like us — except for a few major differences in perspective.
We can get so caught up in our day-to-day that we forget to notice the fascinating world around us — at least, fascinating to those that pay attention.
The observant ones see the world not only as a place to live in but something to study and learn from.
How people walk, their tone of voice, how cities are planned, why institutions follow certain systems.
To the common person, these are everyday minutiae; there’s nothing special about them.
But hyper-observant people can’t help but stop, stare, and wonder.
Learn these 13 ways to help you see the world through their eyes.
1. They Always Ask “Why?”
Someone can’t be naturally observant if they aren’t naturally curious.
That means that a hyper-observant person spends much of their time simply trying to understand why the world is the way it is.
Why don’t Americans and Europeans drive on the same side of the road?
Why can dogs recognize other dogs even though they look different?
Why is the alphabet arranged that way?
Why is the sky blue?
Though they may sound like silly little questions, these are some of the things that only hyper-observant people notice and spend time wondering about.
No matter how hard they may try, their thirst for understanding will never be quenched.
2. They Actively Listen To What Someone Says (And Isn’t Saying)
A hyper-observant person can read between the lines and hear the unspoken words.
It isn’t anything mystical — they can just notice when something’s being omitted from someone’s speech.
When someone is venting to them about a seemingly small problem that they’re having at work, others might see it as them simply being petty.
But a hyper-observant person would notice that it isn’t actually about the work at all. It’s too small to be such a big deal.
It might actually be about how their relationship is falling apart and that they’re stressed about it.
3. They Notice Patterns
The world is made up of patterns. There’s the water cycle that causes the rain.
There are also patterns in human behavior that form habits and trends.
Noticing these patterns can be powerful because it allows someone to prepare and predict the future.
Being aware of patterns and trends is what allows businesses to get in front of their competitors.
That’s why advertising agencies (who are filled with people trained to be observant of the latest trends) are always on the lookout for “the next big thing”.
If they’re able to get on a trend before anyone else, that’ll mean success for the brand.
Being observant like this is a great quality to have. But what else makes you unique and exceptional?
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4. They’re Mindful Of Their Environment
Think of a hyper-observant person like a scout: someone that’s able to scan their surroundings with accuracy and detail.
A hyper-observant person is able to remember landmarks and directions better than others, making them aces in navigation.
Having a good sense of direction helps them navigate their way around a city they’ve never been to. It can also be helpful in simpler ways.
Ever forgot where you parked your car at a sold-out event or a large mall?
Being hyper-observant guarantees that you’ll never forget where you parked because you’ll have noticed the area where your car is.
5. They’re Analytical
To analyze something is to notice even the most minute details.
When a hyper-observant person watches a movie, they’re able to notice the subtleties in the director’s artistic choices.
They can spot the plot twist a mile away, all because of a minor detail a character may have said in passing.
They can also break down the meaning and themes of the film to truly understand what the director was going for.
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6. They Can Read Emotions
People don’t often walk around with a sign that says what emotion they’re feeling.
This is what makes it difficult to talk to someone who, on the inside, is actually frustrated and angry with us.
We may not catch on, but a hyper-observant person will.
They’ll notice the stern tone of voice someone has with us, or that they refuse to look us in the eye.
Reading emotions is what allows hyper-observant people to build lasting relationships with other people.
They can determine not only what’s the best thing to say in a given moment, but also when and how to say it.
7. They Are Quiet At First
When we enter someone’s home for the first time for a party, it can be a dazzling experience.
There’s an entire story told about the host within each decoration and furniture choice.
While others might go straight for the drinks and meeting people, a hyper-observant person takes their time.
It’s why hyper-observant people are quiet at first. They give themselves a moment to process their surroundings, and notice the people in attendance.
8. They Don’t Feel Awkward Moments
In a car ride with only the two of you, it’s normal to feel the need to talk. But sometimes, if there’s nothing much to talk about, it can feel awkward — for you.
Hyper-observant people don’t notice when there’s a lull in the conversation. They don’t understand the big deal with “awkward silences”.
It’s awkward for us because we feel somewhat of an obligation to initiate a conversation with them.
In reality, they’re busy thinking about the sights that they’re seeing outside of their window.
They look at the billboards, the people going about their daily lives on the sidewalk, the buildings, the way the roads are designed.
Their heads are filled with so much action that they don’t realize how silent it can be in the car.
9. They’re Constantly Learning From Their Surroundings
Hyper-observant people are mindful of their surroundings, which can also give them wisdom.
There are lessons to be learned from anywhere. Most great artists and philosophers take their inspirations from the way nature works.
They liken experiences of time like a river, personal growth like plants, human nature like mother nature.
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10. They Have Sharp Critical Thinking Skills
Critical thinking requires attention to detail. Since hyper-observant people can’t help but notice the details, it helps boost their critical thinking skills.
Take a student who’s constantly passing subpar assignments. They can’t seem to get a grade higher than an F or a D.
Some teachers might simply keep failing the student, even threaten to flunk them out of the class if they don’t get their act together.
But an astute teacher could spot the disheveled look of the student every morning.
After deciding to talk to the student in a calm manner, it might turn out that the student was actually having difficulty at home.
In which case, a teacher could instead design extra work for the student rather than give them an ultimatum.
11. They Practice Being Mindful
Hyper-observant people are aware of not only their surroundings but themselves as well.
Since they can notice how people interact with each other, they can also notice how they themselves interact with others and their own work.
They can notice their own tendencies to be lazy or unproductive during the afternoon, which helps them understand the best time for them to do their work.
12. They Can Spend Hours Watching People
Human beings are interesting creatures. They walk around with black electronic rectangles in their hands that they can’t stop staring at and touching.
They open their mouths to make noises at each other. Some litter, some don’t. Some look tired, others look excited.
Hyper-observant people can spend hours at a cafe simply observing how people go about their daily lives. It sparks their curiosity and imagination.
Every person has had their fair share of heartbreak and happiness; success and sadness; good habits and bad habits.
Instead of being like a stalker, they observe more like scientists driven by curiosity.
13. They Can Tell When There’s Something Wrong
A common phrase in the movie series Star Wars is, “I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”
When a hyper-observant person talks to their significant other, they can notice a change in their mood.
Their partner doesn’t seem so upbeat as usual, or that they’re only giving one-word replies.
Like a detective, a hyper-observant person can sense that there’s something wrong.
It might eventually be because their partner has been having a rough day or they’re angry about something.
Others might not have noticed, but a hyper-observant person would’ve.
Although we live in the exact same world as hyper-observant person, they certainly don’t see it the same way.
Indeed, such a level of observation not only requires sight.
It’s about engaging all the senses to soak in the surroundings, from how forceful their significant other close a door, to how hard someone’s grip is while shaking hands.
Being hyper-observant can be a superpower.
We could all benefit from trying to emulate how hyper-observant people interact with the world.
It doesn’t mean that we have to be completely enamored with our surroundings and other people; we can simply start by being more mindful.
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FAQs
What are some characteristics of observant people? ›
Observant people are more comfortable with information that is “right here,” and they process it in “what is” terms. They prefer to deal with things as they are and in the present. That doesn't mean that they ignore the past or the future, but mostly they view things through the lens of now.
What are things observant people do? ›Being observant means watching people, situations, events and then thinking about what you see--it's not just about observing, but the critical thinking that follows which helps you learn more about the world around you.
What is it called when you are extremely observant? ›A hyper-observant person is able to remember landmarks and directions better than others, making them aces in navigation. Having a good sense of direction helps them navigate their way around a city they've never been to.
What are examples of observant people? ›Observant people can watch their favorite movies and read their favorite books over and over again and never get bored because they'll always discover something new. Even if it's as simple as noticing what color socks a character is wearing, that discovery adds a whole new dimension to the experience.
What kind of intelligence is observant? ›Children who display strong naturalist intelligence enjoy being in nature and are especially observant.
What personality type is an observer? ›Enneagram Type 5. Observers believe they must protect themselves from a world that demands too much and gives too little. Consequently, Observers seek self-sufficiency and are non-demanding, analytic, thoughtful and unobtrusive; they also can be withholding, detached and overly private.
Are observant people smart? ›Dr. Catherine Jackson, a licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified neurotherapist, added that highly intelligent people are also observant, possess self-control and a good working memory, can recognize their limits and "go with the flow."
Is observant a skill or a quality? ›Observation is a skill and, like any skill, you can learn and develop it. With practice, you can sharpen your mind and make observation a habit. Here are 8 tips for becoming more observant.
Is being observant smart? ›There are benefits to being an observant person. There are some things in life that only observant people understand or take note of. You are more aware of your surroundings and so this often means that you are one step ahead of everyone else. It's a special kind of intelligence.
Which personality type is most observant? ›Which personality type is most observant? INTJs are extremely observant people, who enjoy paying close attention to the details around them. They don't want to miss things that are happening, and see it as an opportunity to learn more.
Are quiet people more observant? ›
They're more observant.
According to a recent study by Yale psychologists, introverts prone to melancholy make the best amateur social psychologists. In other words, introverts are believed to judge the world more accurately than their more sociable peers.
Engaging all your senses is the ultimate way to be fully observant. Use all 5 senses when you're in a conversation with someone, when you're observing others, or when you're taking in your surroundings. Notice sounds, smells, textures, and tastes of things around you, as appropriate.
Is observant a leadership trait? ›As a leader, you must have situational awareness, which simply means being observant of your immediate surroundings. Being aware will help you obtain information critical to your success.
How are introverts observant? ›They're observant
“We notice things others might not notice because they're talking and processing out loud,” she says. Although it may look like they're just sitting quietly during a meeting, introverts are actually soaking in the information that's being presented and thinking critically.
If you're observant, you're paying close attention to the details.
What is the rarest type of intelligence? ›Spatial intelligence or picture smart is a quality that is perhaps the rarest of all the nine Howard Gardner categorized.
What is the highest form of intelligent behavior? ›Some psychologists believe that the ability to listen to another person, to empathize with, and to understand their point of view is one of the highest forms of intelligent behavior.
What are 5 characteristics of a good observer? ›- Communication. ...
- Emotional intelligence. ...
- Critical thinking.
- Attention to detail. ...
- Look for details. ...
- Avoid distractions. ...
- Keep an observation journal. ...
- Quantify things as you notice them.
The Observer mindset does not intend to suppress emotions. Instead, it aims to use emotions for the greatest benefit. By assessing your emotions, you can become better at filtering out irrational ones that have been learnt but are no longer serving you well. You can see them for what they are and choose not to react.
What are the three rarest personality types? ›The third most rare Myers-Briggs personality type is INTJ
Women, however, only make up 0.8% of the population for INTJs. ENTJ (0.9%) and INTJ (0.8%) are the least common MBTI personality types for women. Among men in the US, INFJ (1.3%) and ENFJ (1.6%) are the least common MBTI personality types.
What are signs of an extremely intelligent person? ›
- You're Empathetic & Compassionate. ...
- You're Curious About The World. ...
- You're Observant. ...
- You Have Self-Control. ...
- You Have A Good Working Memory. ...
- You Recognize Your Limits. ...
- You Like To Go With The Flow. ...
- You're Passionate About Things That Really Interest You.
- Smart People Prefer Dynamic Work. ...
- You See Patterns Others Don't. ...
- You Prefer Building to Communicating. ...
- You Have Adapted to the Modern World Better Than Those Around You. ...
- You're Happier Working without Distractions. ...
- You've Developed Perfect Adaptation Skills.
Powers of Observation is the ability to see things others might not. Powers of observation is the ability to notice minute and significant details. Observation in terms of science can be the collection of certain data or values recorded by any scientific instrument during a science activity.
What are 2 synonyms for observant? ›- attentive.
- discerning.
- discriminating.
- intelligent.
- mindful.
- perceptive.
- vigilant.
- advertent.
For highly intelligent people, whilst they are most interested in finding solutions for real-life problems, they also enjoy pondering deep philosophical ideas and abstract concepts. From a young age, they have an insatiable curiosity about life; They thrive on learning.
Why do intelligent people struggle with love? ›Smart people know the harsh realities of life and do not like to be in an imaginary too-good-to-be-true world. Because of this, they sometimes take things too slow and have trouble committing to their partners.
Is being observant a soft skill? ›The Two Types of Critical Observation Skills
Critical observation is one of the most important soft skills a person can have, and it can be categorized into two primary types: Observation of people. Observation of processes.
The rarest personality type for women
For women, however, the rarest personality type is INTJ and ENTJ. Just 1% of women type as INTJ and ENTJ respectively. Among women, INFJ is only the third rarest personality type with approximately 2% of women categorized as INFJ.
Of all the personality types, the ENFJ is often perceived as being the strongest "people person." They can forge friendships with all personality types, even with more introverted or reticent individuals.
What is the most thinking personality type? ›INTP Personality Traits
As the most thinking-oriented of the types, they rely on logic rather than emotion as their main influence in decision making.
Why Being quiet is powerful? ›
Being silent allows us to channel our energies. It gives us the clarity we need to calmly face challenges and uncertainty. The hour of silence I practice each morning, and encourage you to practice as well, can be a time for collecting our thoughts, training our minds, and deciding how we want to enter into the day.
What makes a quiet person attractive? ›Introverts are loyal and devoted friends.
People are attracted to loyal and devoted people. While introverts may not always realize it, this is a trait most people find attractive in them. Their loyalty isn't just attractive to the recipients of that devotion, but to anyone who observes them.
INTJs are typically very quiet and reserved unless they happen to meet someone who, like them, loves exploring theoretical concepts, analyzing possibilities, and dreaming up long-term goals. That said, they're not typically very verbal when it comes to discussing their feelings or people's personal lives.
Is being observant a talent? ›Being observant is a useful skill, and just like anything, the more you practise, the better you will get, but this is just the beginning, and these are just observations.
What is the difference between seeing and observing? ›The difference between seeing and observing is fundamental to many aspects of life. Observation is more than simply seeing something, but rather a mental process involving both visual and thought.
Can a person learn to be a better observer? ›The ability to observe, like any skill, can strengthen with practice. Try to spend some time every day just observing your environment, using as many of your senses as possible. You can do this anywhere that you can observe activity noninvasively, such as a park, a town square, a sidewalk table or your office desk.
What is the strongest leadership trait? ›Responsibility & Dependability
One of the most important qualities a leader can have is a sense of responsibility and dependability. This means displaying those traits in your individual work, but also demonstrating them in your interactions with others.
ENTJ (Extroverted + Intuition + Thinking + Judging)
Individuals with this personality type are organized, critical, and logical. They enjoy planning, and are very career-driven. Those with this personality type are also exceptionally hard workers, making them great leaders.
They prefer minimally-stimulating environments because their minds crave to grasp little details about everything. The reason why introverts prefer calmer environments and are naturally quiet people is because their ability to observe is limited to less-clamorous places due to its reduced rate of activity.
Are highly intelligent people introverts? ›In fact, more than 75 percent of people with an IQ above 160 are introverted.
What are the 4 types of introverts? ›
- Social introverts. This is the "classic" type of introvert. ...
- Thinking introverts. People in this group are daydreamers. ...
- Anxious introverts. ...
- Restrained/inhibited introverts.
: paying strict attention : watchful. an observant spectator. : keen, perceptive.
Is observant a virtue? ›Examples of the intellectual virtues include being intellectual humble, being observant, being intellectually conscientious, and being intellectually courageous. Consider being observant as an example. This is a more refined cognitive trait than simply having good perceptual skills.
What do you call someone who is not observant? ›synonyms for un-observant
apathetic. bored. careless. distracted. distraught.
- Good Physical Condition. Only mental fitness is not the quality of a good observer but he also possess the physical fitness. ...
- Immediate Recording. ...
- Ability to Discriminate. ...
- Good Eyesight. ...
- Alertness. ...
- Ability of estimation. ...
- Good Perception. ...
- Control over Emotions.
- quick to notice or perceive; alert.
- looking at, watching, or regarding attentively; watchful.
- careful in the observing of a law, custom, religious ritual, or the like.
INFJs are extremely observant and perceptive people when it comes to certain things. They have this subconscious ability to pick up on information, and will process it to come to helpful conclusions.
What are the 6 skills every observer needs and how to build them? ›This article discusses six skills every observer needs and how to build them: (1) Know the rubric; (2) Collect evidence; (3) Understand bias; (4) Recognize and sort evidence; (5) Use criteria for rating; and (6) Coach teachers.
What are the 4 types of observation? ›There are several different approaches to observational research including naturalistic observation, participant observation, structured observation, case studies, and archival research.
What are the two types of observer? ›There are two types of observations: qualitative and quantitative. Scientists gather information by making both qualitative and quantitative observations. Qualitative observations yield descriptive, nonnumerical results. Quantitative observations yield meaningful, numerical results.
What are the 5 components of observation? ›
The observation process is very straightforward: observe and reflect, document and gather evidence, plan and act, and finally, assess.
Which personality type is the wisest? ›The 6 Smartest Myers-Briggs Personality Types, Experts Say
ENFJ. ESTJ. ENTJ. ISTP.
INFJ is the rarest personality type across the population, occurring in just 2% of the population. It is also the rarest personality type among men. INFJ stands for Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Judging. This unique combination is hard to find in most people.