Make no mistake, a top IQ test result that marks you out as a gifted or highly intelligent individual will get you far in life, and open up plenty of doors when it comes to educational opportunities and professional career paths.
However, what happens once you’ve stepped through that door? Suddenly, IQ test scores are seen as the foundation on which to build, rather than the complete product. This is where EQ, or Emotional Intelligence Quotient, becomes a whole lot more significant.
The Significance of EQ
It goes without saying that intelligent people with high IQ test scores aren’t exclusively the most successful or fulfilled individuals. Indeed, most of us know someone who is academically amazing, and yet might be socially awkward, unsuccessful professional, or might struggle in personal relationships.
Your IQ test result might help you get into college, but it’s your EQ that will assist in stress management and emotional turmoil once those final exams roll around. Scientists and psychologists today agree that IQ and EQ are tandem aspects of the brain, and they’re most effective when working alongside one another.
EQ has a profound impact upon the following:
School and Work Performance
A well developed EQ helps you navigate the social labyrinth of the workplace, assists in leading and motivating your peers, and will guide you along the pathways of your career. Nowadays, many top companies rate EQ test scores every bit as highly as IQ test scores, giving EQ a great validity it lacked in previous generations.
Physical Health
Those who struggle handling their emotions tend to struggle with stress. This can, as has been shown, lead to serious health problems, including blood pressure issues, immune system suppression, and an increased risk of strokes and heart attacks. Managing stress is, as such, the first step in improving EQ.
Mental Health
Poorly controlled stress and emotions can seriously impact your mental health, leaving you vulnerable to depression and/or anxiety. Being unable to understand and reflect on one’s emotions will also lead to a struggle when it comes to forming strong relationships, resulting in loneliness and exacerbated mental health issues.
Relationships
It isn’t hard to see how being in touch with your emotions and EQ help you express feelings, and also express empathy and understanding of others. Such factors allow you to forge stronger relationships both in your professional and personal life.
Social Intelligence
Being attuned to your EQ serves an important social purpose; it allows you to connect to others, and unite with the wider world. Social intelligence allows you to recognise and distinguish friends and foes, measure interest from others, manage stress, and balance your nervous system. Furthermore, it allows you to feel appreciated, loved, and happy.
