What is Emotional Intelligence (EQ/EI)?

It is defined as the capability of an individual to recognize and

monitor their own emotions and those of others, comprehend the

different characteristics of specific emotions and categorize them

appropriately. Then, use this emotional information as guidance for

their thinking and behavior, in addition to managing and/or adjusting

emotions to adapt to an environment or achieve one's goal(s).

 

Why is Emotional Intelligence Important?

This rather intangible quality helps us navigate social complexities,

which is crucial for success in our personal lives and as business

leaders. Leaders who have high emotional intelligence are more likely

to notice when emotions such as a lack of humility (i.e. pride) are

clouding their thinking. Such realizations (i.e. self-awareness) would

enable them to make more rational, impartial decisions. It also helps

in the assessment of the emotional state of others. Are they dealing

with some type of anxiety, grief or depression? Recognizing these

symptoms allows you the opportunity to display true empathy - that

is putting yourself in the other persons situation - and provide the

needed support.

 

Emotional Intelligence consist of a skillset that can be acquired and

enhanced with appropriate training and guidance. It delves into the

human element that stands apart from ones intellect (IQ). While IQ is

important, EQ is the key ingredient to being able to relate to others,

leading to impactful relationships - personal and business.

EQ vs IQ - Is There a Difference?

In short, without any doubt, EQ is the more impactful of the two.

There is no known connection between IQ and EQ (emotional

intelligence). There does not seem to be a method of predicting

the emotional intelligence of an individual based upon how smart

(IQ) they are. Intelligence (IQ) is related to your ability to learn,

which is typically consistent throughout a persons life. A persons

ability to learn will typically be the same at age 14 as at age 60.

Emotional intelligence, however, is malleable and can be

organically enhanced. A person can develop higher emotional

intelligence even if it hasn’t been passed on genetically.

Emotional intelligence is our ability to have the mastery over our

emotions, identifying them, and using them at the right time to ensure appropriate and beneficial results for all individuals involved.

Both in business and personal & family life, emotional intelligence

and the soft-skills it embodies are the most integral for success. It

is absolutely critical to forming and maintaining vibrant, engaging

and satisfying relationships. Metaphorically, having or lacking

emotional intelligence is the difference between building a house

on a bedrock foundation as opposed to building on sand.