What matters is hard work, and emotional intelligence.

Mickey Drexler’s quote highlights the importance of hard work and emotional intelligence as key factors for success. He suggests that dedication to one’s work, paired with the ability to understand and manage emotions, both your own and others’, are fundamental to achieving meaningful results. Drexler emphasizes that success is not just about raw intellect or technical skills, but also about emotional awareness—the ability to navigate relationships, make sound decisions, and inspire others through empathy and understanding.

The quote underscores that hard work is a necessary, though not always sufficient, ingredient in achieving success. However, Drexler places emotional intelligence on equal footing, suggesting that it’s not just the effort that counts, but how you interact with others and handle stress, conflict, and challenges. Emotional intelligence allows people to stay resilient in the face of adversity, build strong teams, and communicate effectively—skills that are essential in both professional and personal contexts.

Drexler’s perspective stems from his career as a business executive and entrepreneur, particularly his time as the CEO of J.Crew. Under his leadership, J.Crew became known not only for its strong product offerings but for the company culture that he fostered, one that valued both innovation and collaboration. His focus on emotional intelligence reflects his belief that leadership is as much about connecting with people and cultivating trust as it is about achieving results.

Ultimately, Drexler’s quote is a reminder that success requires more than just effort or intellect—it requires emotional intelligence. It encourages individuals to invest in developing their self-awareness, empathy, and ability to work with others, which are essential components of effective leadership and long-term achievement. By combining hard work with strong emotional skills, one can navigate challenges with resilience and build deeper, more impactful connections with others.