Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the cornerstone of a balanced, fulfilling life. It is not just about recognizing and managing our own emotions but also about understanding and navigating the emotions of others. A person with strong emotional intelligence can adapt to challenges, form stronger connections, cultivate deep, healthy relationships, pursue self-goals with clarity and confidence, and build a resilient identity anchored in a clear sense of purpose.  

Emotional intelligence is not a singular skill but a blend of multiple, core life skills such as emotional regulation, empathy, social awareness, and also understanding the role of emotions in your own personal wellbeing via self-compassion. These skills enable individuals to maintain a harmonious personal life while engaging meaningfully in social and professional environments. EI ultimately helps us build a good life that reflects our true identity and values. 

In education, fostering emotional intelligence equips students with the tools to face the future with confidence. It encourages self-reflection, purpose-driven growth, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. This holistic approach to learning and emotional growth is crucial in shaping individuals who are not only successful in their careers but also live a good, well-rounded life.

For teachers, developing strong emotional intelligence amongst their students is vital, as it directly impacts their effectiveness in the classroom, their relationships with students, and their overall job satisfaction. A model of education that not just integrates emotional intelligence into the current curriculum but takes the cultivation of EI as its foundation is a key ingredient for collective success and crucial for meeting the dynamic needs of the twenty-first century.

The UAE has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing student mental health and wellbeing, which is strongly linked to emotional intelligence. One such key initiative is the National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing under the UAE Ministry of Community Development which is a program that aims to improve wellbeing in all sectors within the UAE. A part of this program is the National Wellbeing Strategy 2031 which is structured around three key pillars—individuals, society, and the country, and highlights the importance of emotional and mental well-being in students, aligning with the country’s long-term educational vision.

Studies carried out in the field of education psychology have revealed that children who are adept at managing their emotions and empathising with others tend to have better outcomes in stressful situations and while some children face burn-out when faced with a fast paced, digital driven and ever-changing world, others seem to thrive and rise to the challenge. The common emotional intelligence and character traits found in the latter group that copes better with stressful situations include:

1. Self confidence
2. Empathy
3. Self control (temperance)
4. Curiosity
5. Optimism

For example, studies using the Character Strengths Inventory for elementary school children have shown that the above character strengths can help children manage stress more effectively, leading to better academic and emotional outcomes.

Teachers with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to handle dynamic and challenging educational environments. They are better at managing classroom behaviour and fostering a positive learning environment, and are better at building positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, all of which can lead to improved student outcomes. Research has shown that teachers with high EI also report greater job satisfaction, as they are better at stress management and staying calm under pressure, and experience lesser burn-out as they enhance their professional practice and personal well-being.

• Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence. Teachers should regularly reflect on their emotions and recognize how these emotions influence their thoughts and behaviours. Keeping a journal can help teachers track their emotional responses to different situations and identify patterns. 
• Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can also enhance self-awareness by helping teachers stay present and attuned to their emotions.
   

• Self-regulation involves controlling or redirecting disruptive emotions and adapting to changing circumstances. Teachers can practice self-regulation by developing coping strategies for stress, such as taking short breaks, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in physical activity. 
• Setting realistic goals and maintaining a positive outlook can also help teachers manage their emotions and stay focused on their objectives.
   

• Motivation, when rooted in emotional intelligence, goes beyond a simple desire to achieve; it is about being driven by a sense of purpose that aligns with personal values and identity. Teachers can enhance their motivation by setting personal and professional goals, seeking out professional development opportunities, and finding ways to connect their work to a larger purpose, such as making a positive impact on students’ lives or contributing to society. 
• Celebrating small successes and maintaining a growth mindset can help teachers stay motivated and resilient despite challenges. When teachers feel that they are growing and evolving, their motivation remains strong and they become better equipped to manage stress and stay committed to their path.
   

• Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Teachers can develop empathy by actively listening to their students, showing genuine interest in their lives, and being sensitive to their needs and concerns. 
• Practicing perspective-taking, where teachers try to see situations from their students’ viewpoints, can also enhance empathy and improve teacher-student relationships.
   

• Social skills are essential for effective communication and relationship-building. Teachers can improve their social skills by practicing active listening, being clear and respectful in their communication, and working collaboratively with colleagues and parents. 
• Developing conflict resolution skills and being open to feedback can also help teachers navigate social interactions more effectively.

Teachers must not only develop their own emotional intelligence but also play an important role in fostering EI in their students. Here are some strategies teachers can use to support their students’ emotional growth:

• Teachers should model emotionally intelligent behaviour in their interactions with students. This includes demonstrating self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and positive social skills. 
• By observing their teachers, students can learn how to manage their own emotions and develop healthy relationships.
   

• A classroom environment that is safe, inclusive, and supportive encourages students to express their emotions and share their thoughts. Teachers can create such an environment by establishing clear expectations, promoting respect and kindness, and being responsive to students’ needs. 
• Regularly incorporating social-emotional learning (SEL) activities into the curriculum can also help students develop emotional intelligence. These activities might include group discussions, role-playing, and mindfulness exercises.
   

• Helping students develop a rich emotional vocabulary enables them to articulate their feelings more accurately. Teachers can introduce new words to describe emotions and provide opportunities for students to use these words in context. 
• Encouraging students to reflect on their emotions through journaling, or class discussions can further enhance their emotional literacy.
   

4. Encouraging Self-Reflection

• Regular self-reflection helps students become more aware of their emotions and how these emotions influence their behaviour. Teachers can facilitate self-reflection by asking students to consider how they felt during different activities and why. 
• Providing structured reflection time at the end of lessons or projects can help students process their experiences and learn from them.
   

Developing emotional intelligence is a critical aspect of professional development for teachers. By enhancing their own EI, teachers can create more positive and effective classroom environments, build stronger relationships with students, and improve their own well-being. Additionally, teachers play a key role in fostering emotional intelligence in their students, equipping them with the skills they need to navigate their emotions and build healthy relationships. Through self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills, teachers and students alike can thrive emotionally and academically.