What is emotional intelligence?

Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions as well as the emotions of others. This skill is pivotal in interpersonal interactions, allowing individuals to respond to social situations appropriately. By managing one’s own emotional state, individuals can remain composed in difficult situations and foster positive relationships through empathy and understanding of the emotional cues exhibited by others.

While reasoning logically under pressure, solving problems effectively, and maintaining relationships are all valuable skills, they do not capture the essence of emotional intelligence. For example, reasoning under pressure may demonstrate cognitive skills rather than emotional awareness. Similarly, solving problems effectively could rely on analytical skills rather than emotional cognition, and maintaining relationships is a broader concept that may not necessarily involve the awareness and management of emotions. Emotional intelligence specifically encompasses these emotional abilities that enhance communication, conflict resolution, and emotional understanding, making it a key factor in personal and professional success.