Daniel Goleman defines Emotional Intelligence (EI) as the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the ability to recognize, understand, and influence the emotions of others. According to Goleman, emotional intelligence comprises five main components:
- Self-awareness – Understanding one’s own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and their impact on others.
- Self-regulation – Managing one’s emotions and impulses in a healthy way, staying calm and in control.
- Motivation – Harnessing emotions to pursue goals with energy and persistence, often overcoming challenges.
- Empathy – Recognizing and understanding the emotions of others, an essential skill for building relationships.
- Social skills – Managing relationships to move people in desired directions, building rapport, and handling conflict.
Goleman argues that emotional intelligence is as crucial as IQ in determining success in life, both professionally and personally, as it enhances social interactions and decision-making abilities.
