Why Emotional Intelligence Matters More Than IQ in a Child’s Success
For ages, the world has emphasized Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and associated it with academic success. However in recent years growing evidence highlights the crucial role of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in shaping a student’s future not only by enhancing academic performance but also by fostering happiness, resilience and their overall well-being. In this blog, let’s explore how this crucial skill set can be imbibed in every child:
The Roots and Foundation
The term gained prominence in the 1990s with Daniel Goleman’s groundbreaking book Emotional Intelligence, which challenged the idea that IQ alone determines success.
Goleman emphasized that qualities such as empathy, impulse control, and social awareness are fundamental to personal and professional growth.
During a child’s formative years, numerous factors influence their Emotional Intelligence (EQ) making it more than just a concept.
Emotional Intelligence comprises of a person’s capability in social skills, empathy, mindfulness, self-discipline, determination, and interpersonal skills.
A child with high EQ can understand and manage their emotions effectively while communicating clearly and showing compassion towards others.
Distinction between IQ and EQ
It is very vital to recognize how IQ and EQ play distinctive roles in shaping the future of children.
IQ
● Primarily measures a child’s intellectual capacity, cognitive ability, and problem-solving skills.
● Plays a crucial role in excelling in subjects like Mathematics and Science, influencing academic proficiency.
● Essential for acquiring knowledge that shapes a child’s education and future.
EQ
● Focuses on emotional regulation, adaptability, and interpersonal skills.
● Develops through life experiences, meaningful relationships, and intentional practice.
● Enables the effective application of acquired knowledge in social situations and real-life scenarios.
Though both are essential, EQ often proves to be indispensable for a successful and fulfilling life. Let’s look at how it determines that.
1. Perseverance
A child’s life is filled with so many challenging moments that every day he faces varied obstacles that test their patience and emotional strength.
Through perseverance, they learn to bounce back and emerge stronger by adapting to difficulties and gaining the confidence necessary to handle life’s ups and downs.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) helps a child imbibe perseverance by fostering self-awareness.
Children with high EQ look at every setback or failure as an opportunity to learn.
2. Excellent Social Skills
Children with high EQ indomitable communication skills which are highly necessary leaving a positive impact on relationships with other students and elders.
They are more adept at building friendships based on trust and empathy. Additionally, they are more open-minded and compassionate embracing diverse perspectives and backgrounds with understanding and respect.
These skills ultimately give them an advantage over other students as they become more confident, adaptable, and effective in resolving conflicts with others.
3. Improved Academic and Extracurricular Performance
Students with EQ tend to show much improved academic performance and grades as they can handle the challenges and expectations that come with it.
It is also clear that they show much-polished behavior in the classroom and school.
They feel motivated to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports and the arts and are not discouraged by failures using setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. A positive mindset enables them to embrace feedback, learn from criticism, and continuously improve their performance in every aspect of life.
4. Mental Health and Well-Being
Children who display better EQ healthily express their emotions reducing the chances of emotional distress and helping them to navigate challenging situations.
They do not hesitate to seek help in whichever aspect in whatever way possible by using open communication.
They develop a positive self-image and an optimistic outlook which helps them in the long run,
5. Future-Ready
All the successful leaders and people exhibit high levels of EQ as they are better at understanding and influencing others.
Children need to consistently practice and develop these skills as they not only enhance their school experience but also prepare them for future personal and professional success.
This development helps shape them into well-rounded individuals who are capable of thriving in all aspects of life.
How Can it be Done
Nurturing emotional intelligence begins with simple yet impactful strategies that parents and educators can integrate into daily interactions and actions. Encouraging children to openly talk about their emotions and feelings without fear of judgment helps them develop self-awareness and confidence. Children often learn by observing how adults handle any situations hence being an ideal role model would be one of them. Allow children to make decisions and learn from consequences. Discuss these at length. Teaching them to practice Empathy helps them make better social connections.
Shaping Over-all Children at Kiran International School
Nurturing emotional intelligence begins with simple yet impactful strategies that parents and educators can integrate into daily interactions and actions. Encouraging children to openly talk about their emotions and feelings without fear of judgment helps them develop self-awareness and confidence. Children often learn by observing how adults handle any situations hence being an ideal role model would be one of them. Allow children to make decisions and learn from consequences. Discuss these at length. Teaching them to practice Empathy helps them make better social connections.
