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Being Smart Quotes

Redefining smart beyond grades and good looks.

Being smart, according to these quotes, has less to do with book learning and more to do with trusting your gut and thinking creatively. They tie in well with our Intelligence quotes for a broader look at how we measure it.

Yeah, it's tough being smart and sexy, too. I have to say, I'm really not that attractive. Until I met my husband, I could not get a date. I promise you it's true. My husband Jeff Richmond saw a diamond...

Quotes by Tina Fey

By the way, intelligence to me isn't just being book-smart or having a college degree; it's trusting your gut instincts, being intuitive, thinking outside the box, and sometimes just realizing that things need to change and being smart enough to...

Quotes by Tabatha Coffey

We should all feel confident in our intelligence. By the way, intelligence to me isn't just being book-smart or having a college degree; it's trusting your gut instincts, being intuitive, thinking outside the box, and sometimes just realizing that things...

Quotes by Tabatha Coffey

Half of being smart is knowing what you are dumb about.

Quotes by Solomon Short

Confidence Quotes

I know it sounds weird, but my definition of 'sexy' has changed as I've gotten older. And being smart and informed makes me feel sexier than any outfit.

Quotes by Sarah Shahi

Pretty isn't the only thing that matters - being smart and kind matters more, of course - but all daughters should hear from their moms that they look pretty once in a while.

Quotes by Meg Cabot

Give your kid some credit for being smart - just because they read about something doesn't mean they will do it.

Quotes by Lauren Myracle

In grade school I was smart, but I didn't have any friends. In high school, I quit being smart and started having friends.

Quotes by David Spade

More humility, in terms of recognizing our luck, and more realism, in understanding at a deep level that being smart doesn't make you good, doesn't make you valuable, doesn't make you wise.

Quotes by Charles Murray

Growth Quotes

I was very invested in being smart and thought to be smart was more important than accomplishing anything in life.

Quotes by Carol S. Dweck

You still should enjoy the beach and going outside. Having a good time at the beach can still include being smart about protecting your skin because getting burned is no fun at all.

Quotes by Brande Roderick

Now I have normal-person fears - fears of failure, of not being smart enough or strong enough or kind enough.

Quotes by Amanda Knox

Frequently Asked Questions

How do these quotes redefine what it means to be smart?
They move the definition away from grades or appearance and toward gut instinct, intuition, and creative thinking.
Is being smart discussed alongside physical appearance in these quotes?
Yes, one quote reflects on the challenge of being seen as both smart and attractive, admitting that confidence took time to build.
What do these quotes say about intelligence and formal education?
They argue intelligence isn't limited to being book-smart or holding a college degree, but includes practical judgment and self-awareness.
Do these quotes connect being smart to kindness?
Yes, one quote states that being smart and kind matters more than being pretty, even while still valuing a mother's encouragement about looks.
Where can I read more about building confidence?
Our Confidence quotes and Growth quotes pages continue that theme.

For the self-belief side of the equation, browse our Confidence quotes and Growth quotes pages too.