Social Intelligence vs Emotional Intelligence: What’s the Difference?

Social intelligence and emotional intelligence are like cousins.

They are similar.

But not quite the same.

Both are crucial in terms of improving soft skills.

However, the differences between the 2 are difficult to spot.

Emotional intelligence is predominantly about improving internal states.

Social intelligence is predominantly about improving external states.

The 2 are not completely disconnected from one another.

Improving emotional intelligence improves social intelligence & vice versa.

It’s important to see the difference between these 2 worlds to build synergy.

‘Synergy?’

Yes…

When 1+1 equals something far greater than 2.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Contrary to the popular belief, emotional intelligence is not about being emotional & crying out loud all day.

Instead, it’s the opposite.

Emotional intelligence is about building emotional literacy (understanding of internal states) so outbursts are bypassed.