The document addresses five common misconceptions about emotional intelligence (EQ) in the business context, emphasizing that emotions play a critical role rather than being irrelevant. It clarifies that high EQ involves navigating emotions, fostering engagement, and enhancing decision-making rather than making individuals overly emotional or irrational. Awareness of one's emotions is crucial for leaders to respond effectively to challenges, promoting a balance between empathy and rationality.

1. 5 COMMON
MISCONCEPTIONS
ABOUT
Emotional
Intelligence
(EQ)

2. Emotions has no place in
business. Business is all
about numbers and
bottom line.
Misconception
#1 There is so much emotions
involved in business. It sets
employee's engagement with the
business, it connects people with
bigger purpose of business and
how businesses serve the
community.
Truth

3. Leaders with high EQ will have
to be nice to people. I don't
want my team to take
advantage of me when I am
nice. It will not work with them
neither.
Misconception
#2
Being rational is the characteristic
of having high emotional
intelligence. It doesn't have to look
"nice" as it includes having the
courage to give and receive
negative feedback.
Truth

4. I am always rational at
making decisions and
never have to consider
my emotions.
Misconception
#3
To arrive at rational thinking,
emotions need to be navigated 1st,
ie not avoid, deny or brushed aside.
By avoiding , denying or brushing
them aside, it will back fire at our
overall well being and quality of life.
Truth

5. Having high EQ will make me an
emotional person and having to
consider all my emotions. It's
not what I want.
Misconception
#4
Having high EQ will make one even
more rational than having low EQ.
Emotions will be navigated well and
you will even get less emotional
than before as you start seeing
emotions as important set of data!
Truth

6. EQ is for my female
colleagues who are
emotional and always get
an outburst of emotions
at workplace. But not
me.
Misconception
#5
Awareness is key. Without awareness,
you will not know when situations will
hit you and you end up not knowing
how to navigate your emotions. Many
people think they are ready, but when
changes takes place and uncertainty
kicks in, it is enough to get one to be
off balance. So yes, it IS for you too!.
Truth

7. “a person who is self-aware, socially adapt, and empathetic (EQ
Competencies) will be able to survive and thrive on the other side
of a life crisis because they have the social and relational skills to
be able to handle unexpected and unfortunate circumstances.”
Dr Daniel Goleman, Author – ‘Emotional Intelligence : Why it matter
more than IQ.’

8. For more posts on
Mindfulness, Emotional
Intelligence and
Communication, follow
me on Linkedin
Shadaitul Intan M Zin

9. To learn more about
emotional intelligence
for leaders,
ask me about
our upcoming
class in January 2021.
Details on my linkedin profile's
featured post.