Shall we begin exploring the different kinds of intelligence?
Robert found a book called Frames of Mind by Howard Gardner. In it, Gardner explains that people are not just smart in reading, writing, or math—there are many kinds of intelligence. Here are the 7 types:
- Linguistic (word-related skills)
- Logical-mathematical (numbers and reasoning)
- Musical (music and sounds)
- Bodily-kinesthetic (movement and physical skills)
- Spatial (visualizing and thinking in images)
- Interpersonal (understanding and interacting with others)
- Intrapersonal (understanding oneself)
Robert shares his personal experience of struggling with English in school because his strengths didn’t match the school’s usual focus on linguistic and logical skills. However, in college, a teacher with strong interpersonal intelligence made a big difference—helping him feel respected and inspired. That positive experience helped him improve, leading to success and eventually becoming an author.
Why Inner Strength Matters More Than Grades?
He also talks about intrapersonal intelligence—the ability to manage emotions, stay focused, and keep going even in tough or dangerous situations. He explains how his intrapersonal strength helped him survive as a Marine in Vietnam. Robert points out that people who lack this kind of intelligence often focus too much on security and avoiding risks. For example, they might say, "I need job security," which can hold them back from taking chances or succeeding financially.
He reflects on how he struggled in school with reading, writing, and math—areas linked to linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligence. But his strengths were in spatial, bodily- kinesthetic, and intrapersonal intelligence. He enjoyed hands-on projects like building a boat and didn’t let teachers discourage him with warnings about grades.
He also talks about the three parts of the brain:
The famous scientist Albert Einstein once said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” Robert studied how the brain works, especially from a business and creative point of view. To simplify, he explains the brain has three main parts:
•Left Brain
This side handles language, logic, reading, writing, and speaking. Kids who do well in school often have a strong left brain. According to Gardner, this is related to skills like using words, solving math problems, and understanding others.
•Right Brain
This side focuses on creativity—drawing, music, imagination, and thinking in pictures. Gardner says this side is strong in people with musical and spatial talents.
•Subconscious Brain
This is the most powerful part of the brain, even though we’re not always aware of it. It’s sometimes called the "old brain" or primitive brain because it works like an animal’s brain. It doesn’t think logically—it simply reacts. It helps us fight, flee, or freeze in stressful situations.
Gardner’s theory links this brain to intrapersonal intelligence, which is about understanding and managing your emotions. Robert believes this intelligence is critical for success in life, love, health, and money, especially during pressure-filled moments.
For example:
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A golfer might miss an easy shot when fear takes over.
- Someone might stay at a job they dislike because they fear change.
- Fear might stop a person from trying something new.
But those with strong intrapersonal intelligence can control these emotional reactions.
They can:
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Stay calm instead of getting angry.
- Face their fears instead of running from them.
- Choose the best action in tough moments.
Professions that require calm under pressure—like police officers, ER nurses and doctors, firefighters, soldiers, and entrepreneurs—all benefit from high intrapersonal intelligence.
All of this sounds great, right? But now comes the big question: Which part of the brain controls your money? Get ready to find out!
