The Significance of Emotional Intelligence in Social Life
- Dr. Baria Shbib
- Oct 23, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 19, 2023

As a psychologist specializing in emotional intelligence, I'd like to shed light on the growing interest in the study of emotional intelligence since the 1990s and its increasing recognition among educators. This surge in attention can be attributed to two pivotal factors:
Firstly, there is compelling evidence underscoring the paramount importance of emotional intelligence as a fundamental predictor of success. It plays a pivotal role in achieving not only academic and professional success but also fosters happiness in social, family, and overall mental and physical well-being.
Secondly, a concerning decline in emotional literacy has been observed. Renowned psychologist Daniel Goleman has alerted us to a significant decrease in emotional competence over the past two decades. This is evidenced by rising rates of violent crimes, increasing instances of depression, including among children, and recurring conflicts. In light of this, the need for enhancing emotional literacy has become increasingly apparent. The good news is that various studies have demonstrated that emotional intelligence skills can be cultivated throughout one's lifetime. The development of emotional intelligence skills not only enriches one's emotional life but also paves the way for the growth of other essential attributes, such as honesty, discretion, trust in others, an appreciation for constructive criticism, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills.
Individuals with high emotional intelligence are acutely attuned to their own emotions as well as the feelings of those around them. They possess a comprehensive awareness of both the positive and negative aspects of their internal experiences. Moreover, they can accurately identify, label, and effectively communicate these emotions when necessary. Such heightened emotional awareness empowers individuals to regulate their feelings and emotions adeptly, leading to psychological well-being. These emotionally intelligent individuals not only relish their interactions with others but also contribute to their emotional growth. They understand that assisting others, even if it means making personal sacrifices and displaying emotional resilience, can be a source of profound happiness.
In essence, emotional intelligence serves as the cornerstone upon which all other forms of intelligence are built. It is inextricably linked to an individual's capacity for success. Emotional intelligence is not a dormant skill but rather an integral part of everyday life. Neglecting to harness this skill can impede the effective use of other mental faculties. While academic intelligence is geared toward mastering the external world, emotional intelligence is dedicated to regulating one's internal landscape.
Emotional intelligence revolves around an individual's self-awareness, the ability to manage their emotions and sensations, and their capacity to comprehend others while devising appropriate strategies to engage with them. Cultivating emotional intelligence equips individuals to navigate personal and social challenges more effectively and increases their chances of triumph in academic and professional spheres.
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