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?
To help you find the answer, we’ve created a fun quiz. Answer a few personal questions and we’ll reveal what your personality “superpower” is and how you can utilize it to live your very best life.
Check out our revealing new quiz here.
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.
QUIZ: What’s your hidden superpower? We all have a personality trait that makes us special… and important to the world. Discover YOUR secret superpower with our new quiz.Check out the quiz here.
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.
QUIZ: Are you ready to find out your hidden superpower? Our epic new quiz will help you discover the truly unique thing you bring to the world.Click here to take the quiz.
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.
Did you like my article? Like me on Facebook to see more articles like this in your feed.
What are the traits of very 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 does it mean to be extremely observant? ›
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 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.Is it good to be an observant person? ›
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.What kind of intelligence is observant? ›
Children who display strong naturalist intelligence enjoy being in nature and are especially observant.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.
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."What do you call a person who observes a lot? ›
(əbzɜːʳvənt ) 1. adjective. Someone who is observant pays a lot of attention to things and notices more about them than most people do.Which personality is the most observant? ›
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.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.
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.
Observation skills are qualities and proficiencies that relate to your ability to one or more of your senses to acknowledge, analyze, understand and recall your surroundings and the elements within it. Practicing observation requires being mindful of the people and things around you.Are introverts observant? ›
Introverts are observant, so they'll often ask poignant and important questions, and see a different angle on something. Managers can respect these quiet strengths by asking questions and allowing everyone to speak during meetings.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.
To be a good observer, you must be neutral. Observations don't include personal feelings or judgment because those things are based on bias. When personal feelings, preconceived notions, and prejudices get involved, people don't see what is there. They see an object distorted by their perception.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 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 personality type is 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.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 signs of high intelligence? ›
- Intense need for mental stimulation and engagement.
- Ability to learn new topics quickly.
- Ability to process new and complex information rapidly.
- Desire to explore specific topics in great depth.
- Insatiable curiosity, often demonstrated by many questions.
Quiet people have stronger brains because they take time to reflect. The best thing you can do for your brain is to give it a break and allow it to soak up what's around you. According to AARP Magazine, being quiet is actually good for your brain health -- because it gives your mind a chance to wander and reflect.What do you call a person who notices every detail? ›
careful, meticulous, scrupulous, punctilious mean showing close attention to detail.What is a person who always thinks they are right? ›
narcissistic Add to list Share.What do you call someone who shows off their intelligence? ›
conceited. adjective. someone who is conceited behaves in a way that shows they think they are very intelligent, skillful, or attractive.What is the strongest personality type? ›
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.
Those who are extroverted, sensing, feeling, and judging are among some of the most likable people, Sameera Sullivan, matchmaker and relationship expert, tells Best Life. They can be identified by their "warm disposition and big hearts," she says.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.
Observation enhances the leader's competence in setting goals, developing plans and strategies, improving his communication skills, and assessment of mustered data. Being observant doesn't demand a leader to be a Sherlock Holmes.
Which personality is the most quiet? ›
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.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 personality type is a quiet person? ›
An introvert is a person with qualities of a personality type known as introversion, which means that they feel more comfortable focusing on their inner thoughts and ideas, rather than what's happening externally. They enjoy spending time with just one or two people, rather than large groups or crowds.Why is observing important? ›
Our observation skills inform us about objects, events, attitudes and phenomena using one or more senses. Additionally, being able to observe and gather information about the world is important because it's the basis of communicating well.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.Why are quiet people 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.
Yes, it's true: New research says that introverts could have a higher IQ.Are introverts born or made? ›
Introversion isn't totally genetic. It gets influenced by your environment at a young age, and our genes allow a certain amount of flexibility in response. This happens through “set points,” which are the upper and lower limits of how much extroversion your brain can handle.What are 4 ways to be a good observer? ›
- Know your subject. ...
- Slow down and look outwards. ...
- Try something new. ...
- Improve your concentration by cutting out distractions. ...
- Challenge yourself to a mental workout. ...
- Test your observation by playing a memory game. ...
- Record and consider your observations. ...
- Stay inquisitive!
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.
Is observer a personality trait? ›
Our second personality scale includes the Intuitive (N) and Observant (S) styles. These traits describe what people are more likely to do with the information gathered from the world around them. Intuitive personality types rely on imagining the past and future potential of what they see.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.What does if you are observant enough mean? ›
If you're observant, you're paying close attention to the details.What is the rarest female personality type? ›
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.
If you happened to fall into the INFJ personality type, you're a rare breed; only 1.5 percent of the general population fits into that category, making it the rarest personality type in the world.What are the signs of a very high IQ? ›
- Good memory and thinking ability. ...
- Good attitude and hard-working nature. ...
- General and Tacit Knowledge. ...
- Good language proficiency and reasoning skills. ...
- Reliable decision-making. ...
- Trusted by others. ...
- High Creativity. ...
- High Achievements.
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 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 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.