There has been a large number of research and studies that revolve around the importance of emotional intelligence or EQ. Experts have agreed that a strong EQ will greatly benefit the different areas of a person's life whether it be at work, at play, in relationships. However, a recent article said that having a high EQ is not always good or beneficial. In fact, it said that those with high EQ have the tendency to become manipulative.
The article on Harvard Business Review have explored the downsides of a high emotional quotient saying that since people with a very high EQ have very good social and interpersonal skills, they can use that to deliver their message according to how their audience wants to hear it.
On the outset, being able to influence people is a good trait but this can turn ugly and be used as tools for manipulation. A classic example of this is when the person uses the emotion to appeal to their audience and disqualifying any logical argument. Therefore, these social skills can be used to achieve either good or evil goals.
Moreover, a high EQ can also limit the creativity and innovativeness of a person because such traits are often present to those who have a low EQ level. Those with low emotional quotient are given to artistic moodiness, bipolar personality, and nonconformism which often leads to creativity.
On the other hand, a person with high emotional intelligence will strive to build relationships thus conforming to the standards and following processes. While good, in general, such people also lack the creative and innovative drive because they are satisfied and happy.
Another common trait of a person with high EQ is being cool-headed and calm no matter what the situation is. You will often see them in control of everything. However, this becomes a disadvantage because they can be indifferent to negative feedback as they will take everything in stride.
