Many educators break this category down into Introspective and Interpersonal skills, but I chose to lump them together because whether your student is “Self” smart (Introspective) or “Social” smart (Interpersonal), the root skill is the same. Introverted or extroverted, these people understand what makes human beings “tick” and use that knowledge to motivate themselves and others. They are world-changers.

A person who is Introspective/”Self” smart is in tune with their own emotions, motivations, strengths and weaknesses. They have an exceptional ability to focus.

Equip them with:

Secret places

Time alone

Self-paced projects

Choices

A person who is Interpersonal/”Social” smart understands and relates well to others and communicates effectively.

Equip them with:

Community activities

Clubs

Apprenticeship under a mentor

Opportunities to contribute and lead

Like the Physical “geniuses”, Motivational “geniuses” may not recognize their own gift, and it is often easily overlooked by others. It may be up to you to study and recognize their special abilities to motivate themselves and others and channel them into opportunities to make a real difference in the areas they care about.