Emotional Intelligence
Your emotional intelligence can influence your life and job performance
The term ‘emotional intelligence’ first appeared in 1964 in a paper by Michael Beldoch, but became more widely known after the publication of best-selling book Emotional Intelligence – Why it can matter more than IQ, by psychologist Daniel Goleman.
Intelligence quotient (IQ) is abstract thinking and logical reasoning and the ability to understand, learn and apply that knowledge. It is your general intelligence.
Emotional intelligence (EI), sometimes also referred to as emotional quotient (EQ), refers to the ability to identify, control and express your emotions and to perceive and assess another person’s emotions. It also allows a person to cope with life pressures and crisis situations.
Differences between IQ and EI
High IQ attributes |
High EI attributes |
School success – academic competency |
Life success – social and emotional competency |
People with good common sense, high intellect and good at mental challenges |
People who do well in social challenges – they are captains, leaders and managers |
An inborn ability |
Can be learned and improved |
Best EI tests
The Emotional Quotient Inventory or EQ-i 2.0 Test is the most reliable and widely used test in South Africa and is available in different languages. Take the test with a qualified psychologist, trained in EI evaluation. He or she will be able to assist you in the interpretation and application of the results. There are a number of online tests one can take, but the results may not be as accurate as a professional test.
EI in the workplace
People with a higher EI generally have better self-esteem and good mental health. They are more likely to be effective leaders, with good interpersonal and negotiating skills and empathy towards colleagues. A good EI can help you to manage your emotions more effectively at work and help you to respond to and impact your co-worker more positivity. In close personal relationships, they are good at expressing their feelings and build long-lasting relationships.
With a good EI, you are more likely to:
- be a better as a team player
- manage conflict skilfully
- adapt quickly to change
- improve and build on your leadership qualities
- show empathy towards others
- self-motivate
- cope better during periods of stress
- cope during demanding tasks
- constructively use criticism to better yourself and improve your performance
How can I improve my EI?
Have your EI evaluated, then find ways to improve on it. Be more aware of how you act or react in emotional situations and over time you should notice an improvement in your emotional skills.
- Reflect on your own emotions, identify your reactions and learn to identify what you are feeling.
- Set boundaries and be assertive about them. Learn to express difficult emotions when it is necessary.
- In close personal relationships, learn to express intimate emotions if you struggle with this. Respond to your loved one in a positive way.
- Widen your perspective, avoid personalising other people’s behaviours. People do what they do more because of themselves and not because of you.
- Learn positive methods of dealing with difficult people. Be proactive, rather than reactive.
- Realise that there is always some reason that a difficult person is as they are, take this into consideration when responding to them – remain objective.
- Learn to stay calm under pressure and to manage your stress. Be sensitive to your own body signals that point to the building up of tension and stress.
- Challenge yourself to rise from adversity. Choose optimism. Learn from a difficult experience or mistake. Don’t dwell on it.
- Learn from truthful criticism, don’t simply take offense. Ignore false criticism.
Resources