12 traits emotionally intelligent people share (You can learn them) | Daniel Goleman for Big Think+

Summary

Daniel Goleman, author of 'Emotional Intelligence', emphasizes the growing importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in the future alongside cognitive abilities (IQ). He explains EQ as a set of learnable skills encompassing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. Goleman highlights EQ's role in leadership, where it significantly impacts team performance and organizational success, contrasting it with the fixed nature of IQ. He advocates for the integration of EQ in education and society to foster a kinder, more compassionate world.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Emotional intelligence is a crucial human ability that complements cognitive ability (IQ) and is essential for leadership and personal success.
• 📚 Daniel Goleman, author of 'Emotional Intelligence', believes that emotional intelligence can be learned and improved throughout life, unlike IQ.
• 💡 Emotional intelligence encompasses self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management—all of which are vital for personal and professional excellence.
• 👥 High emotional intelligence is linked to outstanding performance and effective leadership, where IQ becomes less relevant once a certain level of competence is achieved.
• 👂 Listening is a fundamental aspect of empathy and emotional intelligence; improving this skill can enhance one's overall emotional intelligence.
• 🔄 Neuroplasticity underlies habit change, which is essential for developing emotional intelligence competencies, such as better listening habits.
• 🌐 Emotional intelligence is not a fixed trait; it is a set of abilities with strengths and limitations that can be identified and improved.
• 🌟 Leaders with high emotional intelligence inspire, motivate, and support their teams, leading to a more positive and productive work environment.
• 🌪️ Emotions are contagious, and leaders play a central role in spreading emotions throughout their teams, affecting performance.
• 🚌 The story of bus driver Govan Brown illustrates the transformative power of emotional intelligence in everyday interactions, even in unexpected roles.
• 🌱 Goleman envisions a society enriched by emotional intelligence, leading to more effective parenting, kinder interactions, and a greater care for the environment.

Q & A

What does Daniel Goleman believe will be one of the essential abilities needed in the future alongside emotional intelligence?

Daniel Goleman believes that cognitive ability, or IQ, will be one of the essential abilities needed in the future alongside emotional intelligence, even though AI might take over more cognitive tasks.

How does Goleman define emotional intelligence?

Emotional intelligence, as defined by Goleman, is a set of personal skills that we learn in life, including self-awareness, managing emotions well, empathy, and having effective relationships.

What was the significance of the book 'Emotional Intelligence' written by Daniel Goleman?

The book 'Emotional Intelligence' was significant because it was the first time that the concept of emotional intelligence became well-known to a popular audience, and it became an international bestseller.

Why did Goleman initially consider introducing emotional intelligence in schools?

Goleman initially considered introducing emotional intelligence in schools because he believed that children should learn early on how to manage themselves and others, which is part of social-emotional learning.

What are the four domains of emotional intelligence that Goleman talks about?

The four domains of emotional intelligence that Goleman talks about are self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.

How does Goleman describe the difference between people with high and low self-awareness in terms of developing other emotional intelligence abilities?

Goleman describes that people with high self-awareness are able to develop excellence across all areas of emotional intelligence, while those with low self-awareness struggle to develop strengths in other parts.

What is the importance of self-management in the context of emotional intelligence?

Self-management is important in emotional intelligence because it allows individuals to control their emotions such as anger or anxiety, preventing them from disrupting focus and maintaining effective interactions.

Why is social awareness crucial in emotional intelligence, and what does it involve?

Social awareness is crucial in emotional intelligence because it involves practicing empathy, understanding how others think and feel, and caring about them, which is essential for building trust and rapport in various relationships.

How does Goleman explain the difference between IQ and emotional intelligence in terms of their impact on leadership and performance?

Goleman explains that while IQ can determine educational and career success, emotional intelligence is what sets outstanding performers and leaders apart, as it influences how they manage themselves and interact with others.

What does research at the Yale School of Management suggest about the contagious nature of emotions and its impact on team performance?

The research at the Yale School of Management suggests that emotions are contagious, particularly from the leader outward. If the leader is in a negative mood, it can decrease team performance, whereas a positive mood can enhance it.

How does Goleman illustrate the practical impact of emotional intelligence through the story of the bus driver Govan Brown?

Goleman illustrates the impact of emotional intelligence through Govan Brown's story, showing how his warm and engaging demeanor transformed passengers' moods and made him a beloved figure, highlighting the power of emotional intelligence in everyday interactions.

What is Goleman's vision for the role of emotional intelligence in society, and why does he advocate for it?

Goleman envisions a society with more emotional intelligence, leading to more effective parenting, kinder interactions, and greater compassion. He advocates for it because he believes it would contribute to a better world.