What is Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and Why Does It Matter?
Emotional Intelligence, often referred to as EQ, is a critical skill that helps individuals understand, manage, and express their emotions effectively—especially in social contexts. In this video by My Social Edge, the speaker explains the five essential pillars of EQ in a clear and relatable way, designed especially to help children and young people develop stronger emotional awareness.
The first pillar is self-awareness, which is the ability to identify and understand your own emotions. Many people struggle to describe how they feel, often defaulting to basic terms like “happy” or “sad.” However, expanding one’s emotional vocabulary can lead to deeper self-understanding and mental clarity.
Next is self-regulation, or the ability to manage emotions, especially in stressful or frustrating situations. This involves learning how to calm oneself and use healthy coping mechanisms. The third pillar, motivation, focuses on inner drive—being passionate about your goals and maintaining a sense of purpose.
The fourth component is empathy: the ability to connect emotionally with others by recognizing and validating their feelings. Truly empathetic people are curious, nonjudgmental, and offer support without minimizing others’ experiences. Finally, social skills round out the five pillars. These include verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and conflict resolution—crucial tools for building meaningful relationships and navigating social environments.
Together, these pillars provide a framework for enhancing emotional intelligence, not only in children but for anyone seeking better relationships and self-growth.