Who doesn't want to be a bit smarter? I know I do, if only to avoid misplacing my keys or forgetting someone's birthday. Becoming smarter is within your reach -- there are a number of things you can do to not only improve your mental functioning but improve your knowledge.

Here are some tips that will make you smarter in 30 days courtesy of Potential 2 Success:

• Limit your TV-watching time to 1 1/2-hour show a day. TV really is a brain drain -- half of your brain literally falls asleep
  
• Stop procrastinating
• Reduce your stress. When you're stressed, you can only think about one thing, meaning your brain rejects any new information. Relax.
  
• Expose yourself to new experiences, new cultures and new activities.
  
• Avoid people who might hinder your intelligence growth. Spend time with those who challenge you.
  

And like any muscle, if you don't use your mind, you'll lose it. So do the crossword or something else that challenged you. I swear you'll notice a difference. What do you think?