As an expert in the field of psychology, I have spent considerable time studying and understanding the intricacies of human behavior and emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence, often abbreviated as EI or EQ, is a multifaceted concept that has gained significant attention in recent years for its profound impact on personal and professional success. The term was first introduced by psychologists Peter Salavoy and John Mayer, and later popularized by Daniel Goleman in his influential book, "Emotional Intelligence," published in 1996.

The best definition of emotional intelligence encompasses a range of skills and abilities that allow individuals to navigate the complexities of human emotions in a healthy and effective manner. Here's a comprehensive look at what emotional intelligence entails:

1. Self-Awareness: This is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence. It involves being aware of one's own emotions and their effects on others. People with high self-awareness can recognize their emotional state without being overwhelmed by it. They understand their strengths and weaknesses and are not afraid to seek feedback to improve themselves.

2. Self-Regulation: This ability is about managing one's emotions and impulses effectively. It includes the capacity to control or redirect disruptive emotions and impulses, such as anger or frustration, and adapt to changing circumstances. Those with strong self-regulation are also more likely to be resilient in the face of setbacks and can adapt to new roles and responsibilities.

3. Motivation: Emotionally intelligent individuals are intrinsically motivated and are driven by a passion for work and a desire to achieve for the sake of the work itself, rather than external rewards. They set goals for themselves and are committed to achieving them, displaying a strong sense of purpose and optimism.

4. Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It's about being able to put oneself in someone else's shoes and view the world from their perspective. People with high empathy levels are often good listeners and can build strong, positive relationships because they genuinely care about the feelings and well-being of others.

5. Social Skills: These are the proficiency in managing relationships and building networks. Emotionally intelligent people know how to develop and maintain rapport with others. They are skilled in managing conflicts, fostering cooperation, influencing others, and communicating effectively.

Emotional intelligence is not a static trait; it can be developed and improved over time. It's a critical component of personal and professional success because it influences how we manage behavior, navigate social complexities, and achieve our goals. It's important to note that emotional intelligence is different from, yet complementary to, cognitive intelligence (IQ). While IQ is more about logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, EI is about understanding and managing emotions, both our own and those of others.

In the workplace, emotional intelligence is highly valued because it can lead to better leadership, improved teamwork, and more effective communication. It can also contribute to personal well-being and satisfaction, as individuals who are emotionally intelligent tend to have better coping mechanisms for stress and are more likely to have positive relationships.

In summary, emotional intelligence is a vital life skill that involves recognizing, understanding, and managing our own emotions and the emotions of others. It's a dynamic and learnable set of competencies that can significantly enhance our personal and professional lives.

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Emotional Intelligence (EQ or EI) is a term created by two researchers -C Peter Salavoy and John Mayer -C and popularized by Dan Goleman in his 1996 book of the same name. We define EI as the ability to: Recognize, understand and manage our own emotions. Recognize, understand and influence the emotions of others.read more >>