Emotional Intelligence 2.0

Bradberry and Greaves present Chapter 4 as a practical bridge between understanding emotional intelligence (EQ) and actively developing it. They use the metaphor of a road linking the brain’s rational and emotional centers, explaining, through neuroscience concepts like “plasticity,” that repeated, intentional EQ practice strengthens these neural connections much like exercise strengthens muscles. Evidence from cognitive science supports their argument that new behaviors can become ingrained habits over time, with studies showing measurable EQ improvements persisting years after initial training.

The authors structure this process into a six-step Emotional Intelligence Action Plan: document current EQ scores, select one skill to focus on, choose three targeted strategies, enlist a mentor for feedback, commit to sustained practice, and measure progress with follow-up assessments. Practical advice, such as expecting progress rather than perfection and being patient with change, underscores that EQ growth is gradual but attainable.

While this step-by-step method is clear and actionable, it assumes readers have the resources, time, and supportive environments to implement it. The text reflects a self-help tradition grounded in individual agency, similar to Stephen Covey’s focus on habit-building in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, but does not account for social or cultural contexts where mentoring or feedback opportunities may be limited.