For many years, there was a broadly shared believe that IQ was fixed. Even though IQ test results on the same person do not typically vary by more than 7 points, if the person is motivated and understands the importance of the test, he or she will doubtlessly score higher. There is an underlying genetic component that is being measured. When we are relaxed, alert, and motivated for this measurement, we will actually reflect our natural abilities at their peak.

In fact, IQ may be enhanced by many different factors. It can even be compared to mood changes, susceptible to stimulus. At times, we may be at an optimal performance state, while at other times we may be so “down” that the results of an IQ measuring test would be inferior to what we score under different conditions. The good news is that, as with mood, an IQ boost is up to us. We can manage it, at least to bring it up to its highest potential at a specific time.

Recent studies show that we can consciously control our IQ in a similar way as we can control the way we feel. We may be in a state of depression and somebody may boost the inner child that forms part of everyone’s personality to reveal a smile on our face. It can happen so suddenly that it would only take a good joke from a friend to change even our hormonal secretion. Similarly, it would only take a change of attitude within ourselves to perform outstandingly and show a higher IQ than we could at another time, when no exterior factor is involved. Likewise, we may show a lower IQ under stressful situations when we feel devastated. 

Performing at a peak state when we need to use or demonstrate a high IQ -as is the case when we are taking a test- only takes high levels of motivation, relaxation, and consciousness about the situation, so we are in control.