Emotional intelligence
The ability to notice, understand, and manage your own emotions, and to read and respond well to other people's. It's a skill you can learn.
Category: Concepts and skills
What is emotional intelligence?
Psychologists Peter Salovey and John Mayer introduced the idea in 1990. Daniel Goleman's 1995 book made it famous. Most models include self-awareness, managing your own emotions, empathy, and handling relationships.
Key things to know
Emotional intelligence is linked with better relationships and wellbeing. Popular claims that it matters more than IQ go beyond the evidence, and some workplace tests measure it poorly. Think of it as a set of skills, not a fixed trait.
- It covers self-awareness, managing emotions, empathy, and handling relationships.
- It's a set of skills you can learn.
- Naming feelings precisely is a simple place to start.
- Claims that it matters more than IQ are overstated.
- DBT and mindfulness both build these skills.
What helps
You can build it with practice. Name your feelings with specific words, pause before reacting, and get curious about how others feel. Listen without jumping in. Ask for honest feedback, even when it stings a little. Approaches like DBT teach many of these skills directly.
How SelfMind can help
SelfMind is an AI companion for everyday mental health support: a private place to talk through what you are feeling, in Hindi, English or Hinglish, at any hour. It is not therapy and not a crisis service; it works alongside professional care, never in place of it. You can try it free, no account needed.
Try a quiz
Your Emotional Intelligence. A short check-in related to emotional intelligence, with a personal result at the end. 2 minutes, free, no signup.
Related terms
This entry is educational information, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. For assessment and treatment, consult a qualified mental health professional. If you are in crisis, see our crisis resources. In India, Tele-MANAS is free at 14416, 24x7.