Forget charisma. Forget vision. In 2025, the most underrated — and overperforming — leadership trait is emotional intelligence (EQ). I’ve coached dozens of leaders through crisis, growth, and transformation, and the pattern is clear: The most effective ones master their own emotions and read the room in real time.
EQ isn’t “soft.” It’s strategic.
- It de-escalates tension before it explodes
- It motivates teams across generational and cultural divides
- It improves decision-making under pressure
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4ywngl
This should be taught in every MBA program. EQ > IQ in most high-stakes leadership situations.
Spot on. I’ve seen EQ turn a dysfunctional team around more than once — it’s the glue leadership often forgets.