Emotional intelligence, resilience and wellbeing

Abstract

Emotion is a key part of what makes us human. We are indeed “creatures saturated by feelings” (Howe, 2008, p. 1). This chapter explores the relationship between ‘emotional intelligence’, ‘resilience’ and ‘wellbeing’ – three concepts that are closely intertwined. This chapter describes the three concepts individually and then looks at the link that exists between them. The literature provides ample evidence that emotional intelligence is conducive to wellbeing (Bezzina, Falzon, & Muscat, 2015, p. 153). This chapter shows how emotional intelligence, most particularly the abilities to recognize emotions and to regulate them in self and others, contributes to resilience and provides the necessary tools that allow us to face adversity confidently and with courage. Emotional intelligence contributes to our ability to appraise situations in a constructive way, resulting in better outcomes and heightened wellbeing.