The EQ Edge

Emotional intelligence, unlike a fixed IQ, can be nurtured and developed, and Steven J. Stein and Howard E. Book present it as the real key to growth at work and in private life. IQ, they grant, can predict things such as academic achievement. The authors explain how emotional intelligence works and tie it to more meaningful relationships, greater confidence and optimism, and an enthusiastic response to challenges. They also identify the top EQ factors across many jobs, with insights into what makes strong police officers, lawyers, school principals, doctors, dentists and CEOs, and discuss using EQ to judge job fit and spot promising leaders. Roles outside work, such as parent, spouse, friend and caregiver to aging parents, get attention too.

Deal'n founder Nadia Al Sheikh called it an excellent book on emotional intelligence and singled out its ABCDE exercise for dealing with irrational thoughts rationally, which she uses in her coaching and says becomes natural with practice.