EQ: The new kid in town

Handling stress during exams, handling arguments with friends, misbehaving with colleagues, being confident over oneself- all these can be described in two letters- EQ. Emotional Intelligence(EI) is the ability to  perceive, asses and control one’s own feelings as well as that of others. EQ or Emotional Quotient is the measure of EI.

The concept of EI was developed by two psychology professors, John Mayer and Peter Salovey while discussing a politician and posing the question: How could someone so smart act so inexplicably dumb? I am sure this question has crossed the minds of thousands at one point or the other of their life. We often tell ourselves that we could have performed better if we hadn’t got tensed. The answer to the question is our Emotional Intelligence. Gone are the days of the conventional IQ to determine our success.

There is a huge misconception that IQ and EQ oppose each other. But that’s totally wrong. It is the unison of the heart and the head which is the true secret of success. IQ is our cognitive ability. EQ is our ability to think rationally. IQ helps us to solve a problem by facts. EQ helps us to solve a problem by reasoning. IQ will help you to enter the doorstep of success, but to enter deeper into the path and stride along smoothly, you need EI. So next time you take your IQ test, don’t forget to test your EI too.

Major components of EQ are:

Self Awareness: Be true to yourself!

Self Management: Think before you act!

Social Awareness: Know your society!

Relationship Management: Empathize with the world!

Study shows that the main criterion for selection of candidates for a particular job has shifted from high IQ only to high IQ and EQ both. That is the reason why nowadays HR is an integral part of every interview, which we so dread! People with high IQ are excellent decision makers and know when to trust their intuition. They don’t get angry in tough situations. They can take wise decisions even in times of untoward mishaps. On the other hand, people with low EQ are more likely to create havoc in the healthy work environment. They fail to meet deadlines, cannot cooperate with their boss or mingle with their team members. They are the quitters and a failure. They are more likely to be kicked out, in spite of having a high IQ.

We experience this in our day-to-day routine also. We deal with humble clients and dealers, make friends with those who are amiable, patient and empathize with our feelings. Relationships are nurtured by emotions. We avoid those who are ill-tempered and rude. Low EQ not only hampers our work, but also our personal life as well. Thus EQ has become a major part of the survival of the fittest strategy.

The good news is EI unlike IQ can be enhanced by various ways. All you need is some nourishment for its growth:

1. Reduce stress.

2. Connect to your emotions.

3. Improve your non-verbal communication.

4. Lighten up.

5. Resolve conflict positively.

Next time you chalk out your daily schedule; do squeeze in some time to develop and nurture your Emotional Intelligence.