Emotional Intelligence (EI), a concept popularised by Daniel Goleman in 1995, has long been praised as the key to better leadership, healthier relationships, and compassionate workplaces. It’s the ability to recognise, understand, and manage emotions- both our own and others.
From Martin Luther King Jr.’s moving words that stirred millions to action, to everyday moments where empathy diffuses conflict, emotional intelligence has shaped some of humanity’s greatest progress. But like any powerful tool, its impact depends on how it’s used.
Recent research reveals that high emotional intelligence doesn’t always translate to moral or ethical behaviour. Studies from the University of Toronto and the University of Cambridge show that emotionally intelligent individuals can sometimes use their skills to manipulate rather than inspire.
Example: A persuasive leader might use emotional storytelling to distract people from questioning a flawed idea- a phenomenon researchers call the “awestruck effect”. The audience becomes so emotionally moved that they stop thinking critically.
Similarly, employees high in emotional intelligence but with self-serving motives can use their awareness of others’ emotions to undermine colleagues or gain personal advantage- echoing traits of Machiavellianism.
Positive Manipulation: The Other Side of the Coin:
Interestingly, not all manipulation is harmful. The word “manipulate”, at its root, means “to handle skillfully”. In therapy or leadership, this can mean using emotions intentionally to create constructive change. Example: A therapist might gently guide a client to confront a painful truth by first creating emotional safety. A teacher might use encouragement to motivate a struggling student. This is positive manipulation directing emotions toward healing or growth. It requires authenticity, empathy, and self-awareness.
The Leadership Tightrope: Inspire, Don’t Exploit
Leaders often walk a fine line between influence and manipulation. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., for example, skillfully used emotion to unite people toward justice, not personal gain. His emotional intelligence inspired change because it was rooted in genuine moral purpose. By contrast, emotionally skilled but self-centred leaders- like those who use fear or charm to control can cause harm that lasts generations. The difference lies not in emotional intelligence itself, but in intent.
Studies suggest EI enhances performance in emotionally demanding roles such as sales, teaching, and counselling. However, in highly technical or analytical fields, focusing too much on emotions can distract from problem-solving. Emotional Intelligence is not a universal fix, it’s a skill best applied with balance and ethical grounding.
Emotional Intelligence can empower or exploit, connect or control. As we build our own emotional skills, the question isn’t just “How emotionally intelligent am I?” but “What am I using it for?”
If you find yourself reflecting on how emotions shape your relationships or leadership, exploring this further in therapy can help you harness your EI in ways that are authentic and constructive. Emotional intelligence isn’t about how well you read people; it’s about what you choose to do once you understand them.
At ImPerfect Psychotherapy, we believe emotional intelligence is not about emotional control or performance, but about integrity, awareness, and choice. When empathy begins to feel heavy or isolating, therapy offers a space where you no longer have to carry that understanding alone. Our work focuses on helping individuals explore how they use their emotional insight, reconnect with their own needs, and build relationships rooted in honesty rather than emotional labor. Because emotional intelligence, when grounded in self-compassion, becomes a bridge to connection, not a burden to bear alone.
