Everyone is used to hearing about the topic of one’s IQ, but a light is rarely shined on the importance of EQ.
Your IQ, or intelligence quotient, can be defined as “a total score derived from one of several standardized tests designed to assess human intelligence.” In other words, it tells you how smart you are. EQ, on the other hand, is completely different.
Both EQ (emotional quotient) and EI (emotional intelligence) are both the same thing, but throughout this article, the term EQ will be used. EQ is defined as the capacity in which one can recognize not only their own emotions, but also other people’s too. It is the ability to differentiate between different feelings and use them as a pathway to thinking and work with them. With EQ, one is able to become successful in life. Whether it is in school, work, or personal relationships, EQ gives people the ability to become happier in their everyday lives. Experts today now have the belief that EQ may be more important than their IQ and is certainly a better predictor of success, quality of relationships, and overall happiness.
EQ can be explained by breaking it down into four separate sections.
1. The ability to understand your own emotions
You are able to label your emotions and know exactly what you are feeling. You have the ability to recognize that you have a broader range of emotions. You do not get easily confused when it comes down to describing how you’re feeling to others, as you can pin down exactly which emotions you're feeling.
2. The ability to control your emotions
It is one thing to just know which emotions you’re experiencing, but it is a completely different matter to be able to manage and discipline them. You are able to control yourself and stay balanced in situations. Anger management comes to mind in this section, since it is the power one has to discipline their anger.
3. The ability to understand other people’s emotions
You can read other people’s emotions. This is basically empathy, the process in which you are able to place yourself in the shoes of others and relate to their situations. You are able to understand what others are experiencing and comprehend their point of view and perspective.
4. The ability to manage your relationships with people
How well are your relationships? This section explains how relationships in your life, whether it is professional or personal, are going. It explains how well you able to adapt and react to different people. It shows the ability that you have to socialize with people and how you represent yourself.
People are able to have greater skills in each of these sections. For example, one might be able to understand their emotions, but have a hard time controlling them. The higher you are in each of these sections, the higher level of EQ you have.
Why EQ is important
After you have a clear explanation of what EQ is, you might be wondering "Why is it important?" Emotional intelligence has a great deal and effect in the everyday lives of people. EQ is important in the following (but not limited to):
Health: Whether physically or mentally, with EQ you are able to handle all the stress life throws at you. You are able to avoid falling into great depression or anxiety, which also affect you physically. EQ also allows you to have a positive mental outlook on life.
Success: EQ helps you become stronger and more motivated. It reduces procrastination and increases self-confidence. It also allows one to create better support systems, overcome obstacles and persevere in life more optimistically.
Relationships: With the ability of having empathy, you can have a better understanding of those around you. Whether at work, school, or home, you can communicate your feelings in a constructive way. You can understand the feelings, responses, and needs of people you care about, which can lead to having stronger and more fulfilling relationships.
There are many online tests in which one can see which level they are at with their EQ, below are some.
