Is it enough to be intelligent?

Intelligence might be God-given, but emotional intelligence does not come so easily. Today, more than ever before, it is not enough to be quick, sharp, and logical. It is equally important to be sensitive, sensible, and tactful. Emotional intelligence creates empathy and social harmony. It makes us good and balanced human beings, who can think with both the head and the heart.

It is important to understand that much of our emotional intelligence is acquired. Needless to say, life and adversity are great teachers. You must have noticed that some of us are better at handling difficult situations. Some of us instinctively know how to take people along, to reconcile differences, to balance different needs. These traits evidence a natural aptitude for leadership.

Vivek Atray—an author, motivational speaker, and ex-IAS officer—is a visiting professor at Shoolini University and a fellow crusader for our social mission ‘Ideas That Matter’. He recommends reading and meditation for developing emotional intelligence. Emotional Intelligence is one of his areas of core expertise. Taking time out for reading can be good for the mind and the soul. Meditation brings tranquillity and inner stability. It quietens the mind and heightens your spiritual and emotional awareness. When you are attuned to your surroundings, you can understand people and situations better. You listen and absorb more; you fine-tune your responses. The right orientation and state of mind can improve your emotional skills and personal equations.

Let us look at an imaginary scenario to understand the connection between our general outlook and emotional wisdom. Alan, a disappointed and reserved employee, faces some difficulty at work. He keeps making half-hearted attempts to solve the problem. Since he has not made any friends, he struggles alone in silence. Some optimism could have helped him out, but he tends to give up easily. Joe, a colleague, floats around him, hoping to catch his attention and offer some assistance. But, Alan is too dejected and self-absorbed to acknowledge Joe’s presence. Joe eventually gives up and leaves Alan to his own devices. Finally, the boss arrives and enquires about the day’s progress. Alan feels cornered and grows irritable. A little more prodding leads to an argument. As it turns out, the task is quite doable. Alan’s melancholic disposition, however, colors his perception. It makes him incapable of seeking help and even spoils his relations.

With emotional intelligence, you can make the most of every situation as well as draw out the best in yourself and everyone else. You can skillfully navigate tough terrain and keep your smile through sunshine and rain. Cheerful souls spread positivity and make for a great company. Happy people are also better at handling tough situations and can often turn the tide in their favor. Vivek connects calmness and cheerfulness with high emotional intelligence. He frequently quotes Paramahansa Yogananda, who advocates the need to be “calmly active and actively calm”.

I have heard Vivek and Prof. Atul Khosla, Founder and Vice-Chancellor, Shoolini University, on EI many times over in the last few months. And having acquired intelligence that is a little more emotional, I can say that EI helps you win friends and goodwill. It enables you to love selflessly and well. Just listening to these two brilliant conversationalists can increase your EI. Watch this video to learn more about emotional intelligence and leadership.