Why you're feeling stupid and how to fix it forever.

Firstly, you're not special. You're human like the rest of us.

Are you metaphorically 'skipping leg day'? We've all see that bodybuilder with massive guns and tiny legs. Well, I hate to break it to you, but you could be guilty of a similar sin. 

• Your brain & body are interdependent!

It's easy to imagine that your brain and body are not interconnected systems. You spend hours and hours learning, reading, analyzing data, and improving your mind, right? How many hours do you spend improving the system's health that provides your brain with nourishment and vigor? Tremendous gains in mental clarity, intelligence, and performance happen when BOTH, your body and mind are being fed and exercised.

• IQ starts to decrease at the age of 25.

Yes, you read that headline correctly. Nature is unyielding, and like the Cobra Kai, it shows 'No Mercy.' I love the idea of nootropics, and candidly I've ventured into that world on several occasions. There definitely are compounds that do give you a temporary boost in productivity and mental abilities. Still, I don't subscribe to the idea that a 'simple pill' will protect or improve my intelligence long-term.

• Physical exercise & health increases your fluid intelligence.

What is fluid intelligence? Fluid intelligence has to do with being adaptable and solving problems, even in an unfamiliar situation. If you hear people talk about street smarts, they are more or less describing fluid intelligence. People who possess high levels of fluid intelligence are people who are good at solving problems and spend time thinking outside the box. Do you like how that sounds? I bet you do.

• Put in daily work & reap a lifetime of benefits. 

Who doesn't want more mental clarity and a sharp mind well into their 90's? Well, there IS a proven way to protect those 86 billion neurons sitting in your brain. WORK. Physical exercise. You have to put in the work today, tomorrow, and the day after. Skip the excuses and lace up those sneakers. Create a habit of daily exercise and healthy eating, which will pay dividends for years and decades to come. Just do it! No seriously. Start today.

-Neil Valentine