Emotional Intelligence vs. IQ: Why Emotions Matter More Than You Think
By Tamara Fass
The release of the "Inside Out" film franchise has brought much-needed attention to the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ). These films highlight the importance of understanding and listening to our emotions. How did we lose this perspective, you may wonder. From the standpoint of the rational mind, the home of IQ, there are many reasons for this. Here are three of them:
1. Too Many
The logical mind enforces its dominance by insisting that there can only be one true form of intelligence. It dismisses non-logic-based intelligence as inferior, irrelevant, and, if foreign enough, threatening. Here’s the cold, hard truth for the logical mind: it actually isn't as supreme as it supposes itself to be. In fact, Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences (MI) identifies at least eight distinct forms of intelligence.
2. Too Messy
Emotions, which are complex and non-linear, do not fit into the rigid structure of IQ and are seen as entities that complicate the problem-solving process. The message is that problems would be either easily solved or perhaps averted entirely if not for those pesky emotions getting in the way. The logical mind believes understanding and rationalizing a problem is the only way to solve it effectively, never considering whether another form of intelligence might be better equipped. The question to be asked is what needs to be understood, never what needs to be felt.
3. Too Dangerous
From the logical mind’s perspective, emotions are foreign entities and are not to be trusted. They are unpredictable, intangible, and irrational. Uncomfortable emotions give EQ a danger status to the logical mind that assesses pain as a danger. The logical mind is organized around loss aversion, which makes even comfortable emotions seem dangerous in that they are experienced as setups for future pain.
Flawed Logic
The truth is that emotions do not threaten our well-being but are noble protectors and keepers of incredible intelligence. By viewing them as threats, we miss out on essential information that can guide our decisions and actions. Emotions are powerful allies that, when experienced fully, enhance our overall intelligence and enrich our lives. Emotional intelligence encompasses self-awareness, emotional regulation, motivation, empathy, and relationship management. These skills are crucial for navigating life’s challenges, building strong connections, and achieving personal fulfillment.
The Role of Therapy in Emotional Intelligence
As thoughts and ideas are to IQ, emotions and feelings are to EQ. Therapy offers a safe space to explore and experience our emotions. Therapists help identify emotional patterns, understand triggers, and develop a nuanced language for feelings. This process is vital for reclaiming our emotional intelligence and integrating it with our rational mind.
By prioritizing emotional intelligence alongside IQ, we can break free from the false dichotomy that pits logic against emotion. They do not cross barriers but work in the service of one another to help interpret and apply creativity for truly innovative adaptive strategies. Let’s shift the narrative and celebrate the full spectrum of our intelligence, welcoming emotions back into the fold as vital contributors to our success and well-being.