“Boys who, at age 16, acquire emotional intelligence skills such as impulse control, empathy, and conflict management become well-adjusted 22-year-olds.”
— Daniel Goleman
Simplified Meaning:
When boys learn how to handle their feelings, understand others’ emotions, and resolve problems without fighting by the time they are 16, they grow up to be mature and balanced young adults. Think about a teenager who gets angry when he doesn’t get his way, but instead of yelling, he takes a deep breath and talks about how he feels. This self-control helps him make better choices. If he sees a friend who is sad, and he tries to comfort them, he is showing empathy, which means he cares about how others feel. When he has a disagreement with someone but tries to solve it calmly instead of turning it into a big argument, he is managing conflicts well. These skills are like tools that help him deal with life’s challenges in a healthy way. So, when he becomes a 22-year-old, he will likely have good relationships with others, be less stressed, and be able to handle difficult situations better. For example, imagine two young men starting their first job. The one who has these emotional skills will probably get along better with coworkers and handle the pressure of work more easily. These qualities help people succeed both in their personal life and at work.