Having high emotional intelligence (EI) can bring many benefits in different aspects of life. This includes healthier relationships, better leadership skills, a better sense of well-being, increased confidence and stronger resilience.
According to Daniel Goleman, a renowned psychologist and author who popularized the concept of EI in the 1990s, there are five key pillars to building emotional intelligence. These are self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills. By adopting habits that promote growth in these areas, you can effectively improve your emotional intelligence and reap the benefits. Wondering which habits are the most useful? Discover the 11 things people with high emotional intelligence do every day.
1. Take care of yourself physically
Taking care of your body is essential to developing your mental and emotional health. Eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are priorities for people with high EI.
2. Cultivate meaningful relationships
Maintaining strong and varied social connections is one of the best things you can do to develop your emotional intelligence. Engaging on a deep level with different personalities will allow you to develop your social-emotional skills and increase your adaptability.
3. Connect emotionally with yourself
It is important to take time every day to connect with and process your own emotions. Sitting with your feelings, trying to let go of the stresses of the day, and exploring unresolved emotions are daily habits for emotionally intelligent people.
4. Practice self-reflection
Self-reflection is a common practice among emotionally intelligent individuals. Ask thoughtful questions like “What am I feeling right now?” several times a day can help you better understand your emotional landscape and develop the habit of self-questioning.
5. Show curiosity towards others
Emotionally intelligent people have a genuine curiosity about the emotional lives of those around them. Asking questions rooted in a genuine interest in how others feel and navigating their emotional worlds can broaden your understanding and deepen your relationships.
6. Place importance on self-care
People with high emotional intelligence place a high importance on self-care. Putting yourself first helps you become the best version of yourself, both personally and professionally.
7. Practice meditation and conscious breathing
Meditation and mindful breathing are common daily practices among people with high EI. These practices help calm the mind, promote constructive thoughts and increase self-awareness throughout the day.
8. Accept discomfort
Emotionally intelligent people are aware that the human experience can be complex and are willing to face discomfort in the spirit of personal growth. Intentionally putting yourself in uncomfortable situations can help expand your comfort zone and hone your interpersonal skills.
9. Practice active listening
Active listening is an important skill for people with high EI. Paying full attention, asking clarifying questions, and providing meaningful feedback improves personal and professional relationships.
10. Recognize when you need help
People with high EI are comfortable with their own vulnerability and know when they need help. Quickly asking for help or advice is a common habit among emotionally intelligent people.
11. Practice gratitude
Gratitude is another daily habit of people with high emotional intelligence. Taking the time to recognize and appreciate what you have promotes a sense of well-being and strengthens relationships with others.
By adopting these daily habits, you can effectively strengthen your emotional intelligence and enjoy its many benefits. Try to incorporate them into your daily routine and you will see the results.

My name is Maggie and I’m a writer for thesilverink.com, a website dedicated to news, culture and lifestyle. I have always been passionate about writing and I decided to make it my profession by becoming a web editor. I work on joehovasmf.com and I mainly take care of the lifestyle section. I like to share my discoveries and my favorites with the readers, whether it’s about fashion, beauty, decoration or gastronomy.