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12 Common Habits of People With High Emotional Intelligence, According to Psychologists

You can’t go far without hearing something about artificial intelligence these days—whether it’s “the robots are coming for our jobs” or tips on how to use it to better your career. Basic intelligence, often measured in IQ test scores, is something else people tend to focus on. However, some experts argue another type of intelligence called emotional intelligence is equally if not more important.

Back up. What exactly is emotional intelligence? And what are some high emotional intelligence habits, according to psychologists?

“Emotional intelligence, or EI, is an integral part of forming and developing meaningful human relationships,” explains Dr. John Huber, Ph.D., a psychologist and chairperson for Mainstream Mental Health. “EI can help maintain long-term relationships and help people to deal with intense situations. An example would include working in a high-stress job such as a salesperson, doctor, lawyer or social worker.”

See? Career success isn’t all about test scores. Humanity matters too. And, unlike IQ, EI is easier to improve.

“Basic intelligence is strongly influenced by genetics and relatively static after childhood,” says Dr. Kristin Daley, Ph.D., FSBSM, a licensed psychologist and founder of BASE Cognitive Behavioral in Charlotte, North Carolina. “Emotional intelligence is malleable throughout the lifespan and actually can contribute more to overall life satisfaction.”

How do you know if you have high emotional intelligence, and how can you improve yours? Experts shared 12 common habits of highly emotionally intelligent people.