Why emotional intelligence beats raw IQ every time
Here's something I wish I'd understood earlier in my career: the smartest person in the room isn't always the most successful. I've watched brilliant developers struggle with team dynamics while colleagues with solid (but not exceptional) technical skills became tech leads and managers. The difference? Emotional intelligence.
The same pattern plays out for our kids. Academic achievement matters, but the ability to understand emotions, navigate relationships, and communicate effectively determines success in ways that test scores never will. And unlike IQ, emotional intelligence can be taught, practiced, and improved throughout life.