While the media tends to play up the role that IQ plays in success, more and more psychologists are discovering that emotional intelligence (EI) is one of the greatest qualities that a person can develop in life.
Based around skills such as empathy and self-awareness, emotional intelligence is an extremely desirable trait in fields where interpersonal relationships are highly valued. Here are just a few of the best books about emotional intelligence, and why reading them can be a truly life-changing experience.
HBR Guide to Emotional Intelligence
A career in business can require many emotional skills, and the Harvard Business Review’s guide to emotional intelligence is a great primer on how to put such skills into practice. With advice on how to deal with difficult people in the workplace and how to cope with adversity, this is a great read for individuals who want to take their leadership skills to the next level.
Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman
Psychologist and New York Times writer Daniel Goleman is one of the most respected names in the field of emotional intelligence studies, and his first book remains a landmark study of EI. For anyone who has ever wondered why social skills play a unique role in personal and professional development, “Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ” will be a great and informative read.
Emotional Intelligence For Dummies by Dr. Steven Stein
“Emotional Intelligence For Dummies” is a fantastic introduction to the world of EI, but don’t let the title fool you: Despite the fact that Dr. Stein’s clear and concise writing makes learning about complex psychological concepts a breeze, the book is packed with interesting and sophisticated theories about the role that interpersonal skills play in both the home and the workplace.
Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves
Written by two experts who specialize in workplace psychology, “Emotional Intelligence 2.0” provides great advice for readers who want to build on EI skills in a professional environment. Bradberry and Greaves researched over 500,000 subjects to reach their conclusions about the role that EI plays in the workplace, and their deep dive into the nature of interpersonal communication is both fascinating and revealing about the ways in which social skills determine pathways to success.