In a recent LinkedIn post, Daniel Goleman, a renowned psychologist and author, delves into the fundamental nature of emotions and the critical importance of emotional intelligence (EI) in professional and personal life. Goleman emphasizes that emotions are not mere feelings but serve as a vital internal compass, offering wisdom about our experiences and surroundings.
Goleman highlights the practical benefits of cultivating EI, stating:
“Learning to recognize and manage our own emotions, as well as those of others, benefits us in every part of life.”
He stresses that while some individuals may possess a natural inclination towards empathy or emotional regulation, these are not fixed traits. According to Goleman, emotional intelligence is a skill that can be developed and enhanced through dedicated effort and practice.
The Learnable Nature of Emotional Intelligence
A core theme in Goleman’s post is the idea that EI is not an innate gift but a learnable competency. He advocates for intentional learning and consistent practice as the pathways to significant growth in this area.
To support this, Goleman points out:
“With motivation, it’s learned and learnable.”
He further elaborates on the structured approach to developing EI, referencing courses he helped design. These programs aim to guide individuals through 12 key EI skills that distinguish high performers. The curriculum, as described by Goleman, focuses on understanding each skill, its significance, and provides practical daily exercises to integrate these learnings into daily life and work.
Focus on ‘Influence’ Skill
Goleman specifically mentions a current group focusing on the skill of ‘Influence,’ which falls under the Relationship domain of EI. He explains the value of strengthening this particular skill:
“Strengthening this EI skill can help you become more persuasive, engaging, and effective at building buy-in from key people.”
This emphasis on ‘Influence’ underscores Goleman’s perspective on how specific EI competencies can lead to tangible improvements in professional effectiveness, particularly in leadership and collaboration.
Developing Key EI Skills
The post concludes with an invitation to join an upcoming 12-week facilitated cohort designed to foster EI development. Goleman reiterates that through guided learning and practice, individuals can make substantial changes in how they understand and manage emotions, ultimately leading to greater success and well-being.
As Daniel Goleman argues, the journey to enhanced emotional intelligence is accessible to everyone willing to invest the time and effort. His insights suggest that mastering emotions is a fundamental aspect of personal and professional excellence.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Daniel Goleman on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on May 7, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →