Cultural Blog
Emotional Intelligence (EI)
The Meaning of Emotional Intelligence



What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional Intelligence (or EI) as the ability to:

  • Recognize, understand and manage our own emotions and;
  • Recognize, understand and manage our own emotions and;

In practical terms, this means being aware that emotions can drive our behavior and impact people (positively and negatively), and learning how to manage those emotions, both our own and others.

Managing emotions is especially important in situations when we are under pressure. For example, when we are…

  • Giving and receiving feedback
  • Meeting tight deadlines
  • Dealing with challenging relationships
  • Not having enough resources
  • Navigating change
  • Working through setbacks and failure

Why Emotional Intelligence is Important

It’s a scientific fact that emotions precede thought. When emotions run high, they change the way our brains function…diminishing our cognitive abilities, decision-making powers, and even interpersonal skills. Understanding and managing our emotions (and the emotions of others) helps us to be more successful in both our personal and professional lives.

At a personal level, emotional intelligence helps us:

  • Have uncomfortable conversations without hurting feelings
  • Manage our emotions when stressed or feeling overwhelmed
  • Improve relationships with the people we care about

At work, emotional intelligence can help us:

  • Resolve conflicts
  • Coach and motivate others
  • Create a culture of collaboration
  • Build psychological safety within teams

Curiosity

Where Did the Term Emotional Intelligence Come From?

The term emotional intelligence was created by two researchers, Peter Salavoy and John Mayer in their article “Emotional Intelligence” in the journal Imagination, Cognition, and Personality in 1990. It was later popularized by Dan Goleman in his 1995 book Emotional Intelligence.