What is Emotional Intelligence? The first time the words emotional intelligence were used together was in a paper by two psychology professors in 1990.Their paper was the first time anyone was able to explain how emotions contribute to a person’s overall success.

Each emotion is an impulse to act. The instinct for quick action helped humans survive as a species. We had only seconds to decide, “do I eat this or does it eat me?”

Instincts give us automatic talents.

Human behavior evolved. The uniquely human areas of the mind depend on the primitive brain underneath. The process of thinking requires feelings, for feelings are what let us understand all the information that we cannot directly comprehend.

Emotional Intelligence is using the evolved capacity of the mind. Emotional Intelligence is using the evolved capacity of the mind. It is using your primitive instincts and emotions along with your rational mind to guide the actions and choices that contribute to your feeling of worth and well being. Instincts + Emotions + Rational Mind

The capacity to care gives life the most significance. The theme that runs throughout the college professors’ paper is empathy and optimism are emotional skills that most affect one's capacity for success.

Emotionally intelligent people…are survivors. Research shows, “When something horrible happens, survivors immediately accept the situation for what it is and consciously decide that they will do everything in their power to get through it." That is, they have the ability to rationally accept dreadful circumstances without becoming angry or passive.

Emotionally intelligent people …manage emotions.

Emotionally intelligent people…are assertive. To be assertive, you have to know what you’re feeling, read the other party accurately, and express yourself in a way that allows the best result. Emotionally intelligent people…are assertive.

Emotional Intelligence Know what you feel Cultivate empathy and optimism Read people Emotional Intelligence Emotional intelligence can help you navigate a complicated, uncertain and sometimes difficult world. Express yourself assertively Harness and use your emotions