Best Books on Emotional Intelligence

Best Resources on Emotional Intelligence So much has been written about emotional intelligence over the years. For many self help gurus, this is the key to living a more happy and fulfilled life. The definition of emotional intelligence varies depending on who you ask, but most agree that it is the ability to control one’s emotions despite our external influences. This sounds simple in thought, but in fact it is something that most people struggle with. Even those that would consider themselves extremely conscious and aware of this concept have difficulty keeping it together when it really hits the fan. It is part of the human element to raise our defense mechanisms when we feel vulnerable or threatened, and this usually manifests itself with negative emotions and reactions to those around us. In my journey towards enlightenment, I’ve read many books and different material that discussed the topic. A few had a profound impact on my own perspective, and I wanted to share those with you here. Anything that helps you see things in a new light is extremely poweful, and just one thought can cause a paradigm shift than can alter the trajectory of your life. Here they are, in no order: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People If your into self help, this is a must read. It covers emotional intelligence in great depth and detail, but doesn't stop there. Stephen Covey gives the reader some great insights into how they utilize emotional intelligence to forge better relationships and connect more deeply with the people around them. His chapters on being proactive and seeking to understand others are particularly moving. If you haven’t already, you must read this book. If you’re already read it, read it again! You’ll pick up some things you missed the first time, you won’t regret it! The Mind is the Map This is a newer book written by Christina Reeves and Dimitrios Spanos. This book is unique in that it incorporates a lot of New Age principles on Thought and Consciousness. Emotional Intelligence can have a very rigid scientific undertone, but they do a great job of explaining how the science behind emotional intelligence is interconnected with our own spirituality and consciousness. In addition to the book, the authors have a school website where they offer personal development workshops and the opportunity to work with certified life coaches. This book is one of the better publications on the topic of emotional intelligence that has come out in a long time. Emotional Intelligence This is the book widely credited with popularizing the term ‘emotional intelligence.’ More of a business focused book, this work explains that cognitive intelligence (IQ) is not the only predictor of success in business, but emotional intelligence (EQ) is equally as important. While it does focus more on the business side of emotional intelligence, the book also highlights how adopting these principles can help you in everyday life. This is a great read for people looking to understand the concept of emotional intelligence fully. These 3 resources are equally as educational as they are inspirational. If you read nothing else in the next year, these books have the ability to really change your way of thinking and help you in dealing with negative emotions. If there’s anymore books that you’ve found helpful on the topic, please share below!