Is emotional intelligence the key success factor?

Imagine a class of 50 students from a top business school, all of whom were selected based on tough selection based on their high IQ levels. In such a scenario, it is reasonable to assume that most students would perform equally well academically. However, it has been found that those who outperform their peers tend to have higher emotional intelligence (EQ) levels.

Similarly, many successful business owners and professionals may not possess higher educational degrees but excel due to their high EQ skills.

Studies have shown that people with high levels of emotional intelligence tend to have better interpersonal relationships, communicate more effectively, and have higher levels of job satisfaction. They are also better equipped to handle stress and manage conflict in the workplace.

In contrast, people with low levels of emotional intelligence may struggle to connect with others, experience difficulty managing their emotions, and have trouble communicating effectively. This can lead to conflicts with colleagues and a lack of success in their personal and professional lives.

EI plays a crucial role in our personal and professional success, and it’s important to cultivate our emotional intelligence along with our intellectual intelligence.

Emotional Intelligence old and new

Let me share something that I’ve experienced during my 30-year professional career as a senior leader, as well as a Mindfulness & Emotional Intelligence trainer and coach. I’ve seen many leaders and managers with high IQ, technological skills and experience, fail to perform in senior leadership positions, in managing bigger teams, or handling complex situations. On the other hand, individuals who understand others, demonstrate poise, and manage complex social situations without losing their composure tend to be more creative and perform and lead better.

So it’s not just about having knowledge or being cognitively smart, these people have higher emotional intelligence which allows them to not only to understand and manage their emotional state. They have the skill which helps them navigate through difficult situations with ease while maintaining strong relationships. They handle stress better than those with high IQ alone. In other words, emotional intelligence plays a key role in their day to lives and decision making.

What makes up Emotional Intelligence?

EI is a powerful skill that helps us in recognizing and managing emotional data in two ways, Inside World (Intrapersonal) and Outside World (Intrapersonal)

There are four key characteristics that define these two stages :

1. Self-Awareness: Paying attention to our own self, observing our thoughts, feelings, physical sensations habits, reactions and behavior.

2. Self-Management: Managing and regulating feelings and emotions effectively so that we can respond to situations and communicate those feelings and emotions to other in a productive way.

3. Social Awareness: Recognizing and understanding the emotions of others.

4. Relationship Management: How can we build strong and meaningful connections with others.

Are there any benefits of Emotional Intelligence?

Developing emotional intelligence (EI) offers numerous benefits. One of the key advantages is the ability to make better decisions under pressure and recognize when personal biases or ego are hindering productivity. Leaders with high EI can manage their emotions, remain calm during stressful times, and have exceptional communication and listening skills.

Few of the benefits are as below :

– Higher Awareness

– Better mental and physical health

– Reduced anxiety, stress and burnout

– Empathize with others.

– Better relationships and lesser conflicts

– Effectively manage challenges.

– Creativity,

– Problem-solving,

– Decision-making,

– Leadership and teamwork,

– Customer service

– Motivation

– Compassion and Kindness

– Flexibility and Understanding

Finally

While intelligence quotient (IQ) is undoubtedly important, it is not the only factor that determines success. Emotional intelligence (EI) is equally significant in shaping how we handle stress, interact with others, and build relationships.

Higher EI is a better predictor of success than high IQ alone.

So, if you’re ready to invest in your personal and professional success, start working on your emotional intelligence today.

It’s an opportunity to unlock your full potential and become the best version of yourself.

Manish Behl, Mindfulness Teacher and founder of Mindfulness India Summit and Mindful Science Centre