Over the last few years, coaches have come to understand that when it comes to happiness and success, emotional intelligence (EQ) matters as much or more than intellectual ability (IQ). As a physician, if you want to build stronger relationships, or succeed at work, then higher emotional intelligence usually helps. Highly successful people who achieve their career and personal goals are even more likely to have a high EQ than a high IQ.

So what is emotional intelligence (EQ)? EQ is the ability to identify and use, our emotions in positive ways to communicate effectively and empathize with others. It is a useful tool to defuse conflict and an important part of anger management. People with high emotionalintelligence are able to recognize their own emotional state and the emotional states of those around them. They can use this understanding of emotions to relate to others and create better relationships, as well as have more success at work.

Emotional intelligence has at least five component skills:

• Self-awareness

• Self-management or self-regulation

• Motivation

• Empathy

• Social awareness & Relationship management

The good news is these skills can often be taught and, unlike IQ,EQ can increase as we grow older. Dr. Hudson may use EQ assessment and training in many aspects of coaching but it is especially valuable in conflict situations and anger management. "Physicians who understand patient-centeredness and caring behaviors can help hospitals to prevent medical errors (and) avoid litigation" (Ananth 2013) and can also reduce reduce staff turnover.