Lifelong Learning: Keeping the Mind Sharp

Recently I took an online IQ test out of curiosity. The result surprised me: 154. (When I saw that I thought it was hilarious as I expected it to be around 110 – naturally assuming that with age my IQ should deteriorate…)

What made it especially interesting is that I remember taking a professionally administered IQ test in my twenties and scoring around 134. I’m now nearing my 50s, which made me pause and think about something encouraging: perhaps the mind really does grow stronger when we keep using it.

Over the years I’ve never stopped learning. Not in a formal academic sense necessarily, but in everyday ways that keep the brain active and curious.

Small Mental Workouts Add Up

One simple habit that helps is playing logic-based games on apps or online. Things like:

• Sudoku

• Shape-sorting puzzles

• Pattern games such as Magic Sort

• Quick visual logic challenges

These little games exercise the brain’s ability to recognize patterns and solve problems quickly. Interestingly, the short ads between games often introduce other puzzle apps I wouldn’t normally find which create variety as I will often play them at top speed before exiting back to the game. 

Staying Curious About the World

Another powerful exercise for the mind is simply staying engaged with the world.

Following the news and observing historical patterns keeps the mind asking questions:

• Why do societies repeat certain mistakes?

• What patterns appear across different generations?

• What can history teach us about the present?

Looking for patterns like this trains the brain to think analytically rather than passively absorbing information.

Deep Study and Mental Focus

For me personally, one of the most stimulating areas of study has been Bible research, especially digging into the original Hebrew texts. Studying language, symbolism, and context forces the mind to slow down and examine details carefully.

It’s a type of learning that combines history, language, philosophy, and spiritual reflection all at once — a rich workout for the mind.

An Unexpected Aid: Frankincense

There’s also an unusual habit I’ve developed over the years: burning frankincense resin.

Some scientific studies suggest compounds in frankincense may support memory and cognitive function. Whether the benefit is chemical, psychological, or simply the calming ritual itself, I’ve found that the scent helps create a peaceful atmosphere for thinking, reading, and meditation.

Every day I burn a little while studying or reflecting. It turns learning into a moment of quiet focus.

The Mind Is Meant to Grow

The takeaway from all of this is simple: the brain thrives on use.

Small daily habits can keep the mind alive and curious:

• puzzles and pattern games

• reading and analysis

• studying meaningful subjects

• quiet reflection and meditation

Over time, those small habits accumulate.

Just like muscles grow stronger with regular exercise, the mind seems to respond in the same way — strengthening through curiosity, learning, and thoughtful reflection.

And perhaps that’s the real reward of lifelong learning: not just higher scores on a test, but a richer, more observant way of seeing the world.