When I went on to write my next book, Working With Emotional Intelligence, I wanted to make a business case that the best performers were those people strong in these skills.

In this quote, Daniel Goleman, a psychologist and author, discusses the motivation behind his book Working With Emotional Intelligence. He wanted to establish a business case that those who perform at the highest levels in the workplace are not just skilled in technical abilities, but are also strong in emotional intelligence. Goleman argues that emotional intelligence, which includes skills like self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy, plays a crucial role in professional success, particularly in leadership and team dynamics.

Goleman’s statement underscores the growing recognition that intelligence is not solely about cognitive abilities or technical expertise, but also about how well individuals manage their emotions and interact with others. He advocates for a shift in how success is measured, highlighting the fact that people who can navigate their own emotions and understand those of others tend to perform better in both individual and team settings. Emotional intelligence, in Goleman’s view, is an essential skill for effective leadership and workplace performance.

The origin of this quote comes from Goleman’s work on emotional intelligence. His book, published in 1995, helped popularize the idea that emotions and interpersonal skills are critical to success in life and work. The quote is a reflection of Goleman’s broader research and understanding of how emotional and social abilities contribute to personal development and career advancement.

Ultimately, Goleman’s quote emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence as a key factor in achieving success. It suggests that technical expertise alone is not enough to excel in today’s complex, collaborative work environments. By highlighting the connection between emotional intelligence and high performance, Goleman advocates for a more holistic approach to personal and professional development.