Why Emotional Intelligence, Not IQ, Predicts Who Thrives (and Who Burns Out)
Many ambitious professionals grow up believing that intelligence is the ultimate key to success. From the time we enter school, we’re measured, ranked, and praised for our ability to think analytically and solve complex problems.
I used to think being the smartest person in the room was enough.
I believed that if I kept my head down, worked harder than everyone else, and never showed a crack in the armor, success would inevitably follow.
But it didn’t. I burned out.
When I finally looked up, I noticed something I had never paid attention to before: the people who were truly thriving in their careers and their lives weren’t always the most intelligent.
They were the ones who knew how to build genuine relationships, navigate difficult conversations, manage their emotions under pressure, and stay connected to purpose instead of constantly proving themselves.
That’s when it clicked: IQ can open doors, but EQ keeps them open.
If you’re not familiar with the term, here’s a quick breakdown:
IQ (Intelligence Quotient) measures your ability to reason, solve problems, and think analytically.
EQ (Emotional Intelligence) is your ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions—and to tune into the emotions of others.
While IQ is an essential part of success, research consistently shows that EQ is an even stronger predictor of performance and fulfillment.
In fact, a study by TalentSmart found that emotional intelligence accounts for 58% of performance in all types of jobs, and 90% of top performers have high EQ.
Why does this matter so much?
Because no matter how smart you are, if you can’t relate to people, handle stress, or lead yourself through uncertainty, your potential stays limited.
Think about it, how many brilliant people have you seen sabotage their careers or relationships because they couldn’t handle feedback or conflict?
If you’re committed to growing your emotional intelligence, here are a few ways to start:
Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. When you feel defensive or misunderstood, ask yourself, What might this person be experiencing right now?
Stay open-minded. Be willing to question your assumptions and see situations from multiple perspectives.
Notice your emotions. Instead of reacting impulsively, pause and observe how you feel and why.
Get curious about others. Pay attention to what drives the people around you and what they care about.
It doesn’t mean IQ isn’t important; it absolutely is. But it’s not the only factor that shapes your success or your fulfillment.
If you’re reading this, chances are your intelligence isn’t what’s holding you back. But leveling up your EQ could be the missing link between where you are and where you want to be, in both your career and your life.
If you’d like to explore this topic further or learn how to develop emotional intelligence in a sustainable way, feel free to reach out or explore additional resources on this site.
What comes up for you when you think about your own EQ? Is it something you’ve intentionally developed, or something you’ve overlooked in pursuit of results?
Ready to Go Deeper?
This is just one of the tools I teach in my book and speaking engagements.
If you’re a high-achieving professional feeling stuck in burnout, overwhelmed by pressure, or craving a success that actually feels good, I’ve been there.
Read the full story and framework in my book. Here’s a free chapter: Success Starts Within
Book me to speak at your next event or workshop: Let’s connect
Let’s stop normalizing burnout and start building a version of success that includes your peace.
Chazz Scott | Resilience & Sustainable Performance Expert | Founder, Supra Mentem Consulting | Author of Success Starts Within
Creator of the Rise & Reclaim Blueprint™ – Helping professionals and teams break free from burnout, boost retention, and build success that actually feels good.
