“In a high-IQ job pool, soft skills like discipline, drive, and empathy mark those who emerge as outstanding.”
-Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence
What is Emotional Intelligence?
Emotional Intelligence is the ability to manage our emotions intelligently so that we can control our emotions rather than our emotions controlling us. It is the ability to understand our own feelings and how they affect us. In addition, emotional intelligence, also known as EQ (Emotional Quotient),includes understanding the feelings of others.
Why Does Emotional Intelligence Matter?
For Individuals
For an individual, emotional intelligence is vital for personal happiness. A person who knows what he is feeling and who takes charge of his emotions frees himself up to enjoy his life, work and relationships. She is able to resolve conflicts with others more effectively and enjoy healthier interpersonal relationships as a result. People with higher emotional intelligence smile more and complain less. It’s been said that 58% of success is due to EQ (Emotional Intelligence) while only 42% is due to IQ.
Organizations
In an organization, emotional intelligence of employees is of primary importance for improved productivity and profitability. Low EQ employees are less productive, spending a lot of their time and emotional energy in unresolved conflicts with other employees or managing their own emotions. Without skills to deal with emotional issues, low EQ employees allow their emotions to sap their energy and enthusiasm, leading to low morale and low productivity.