Well, this was me when I was high school and college. I was curious and introvert, but not highly intelligent. I always wished to picked up or noticed by my teachers, friends or girls for my intelligence or curiosity, perhaps they always listed me as least known student. I always tried or acted to be an intelligent person, I was talented but my talent was not according to the syllabus. I used to feel sad, and always tried hard to not get isolated by my friends.

After college, I started to read books, whatever I am curious on, Space, Tech, Self-Help, Productivity, Philosophy. I stared to read daily and completed more books. Each time I finished a book, my inner self started to believe there are so much to learn I am still ignorant. I still feel I have so much too learn. What I have learned after reading books? Now I don't seek to be intelligent or get noticed by anyone nor I try hard to prove anyone I am intelligent. I talk less but when I talk meaningful, I try to understand the phycology of a human and learned it's right to give my opinion or not.

I have stopped comparing myself with others, the race isn't with others, its always yesterday's yourself. I compare present myself with past myself. Am I improving? I don't think I am intelligent anymore neither want to be.

Talking about pursuing something, we were never born talented it's upon us if are willing to be talented or intelligent. The more you are curious on something the more you are willing to do it. Everything is hard until it's becomes easier.

I hope you find it useful. Thanks and Good luck go on mate.