Why Emotional Intelligence is the Catalyst for Purpose and Love in Business

Emotional intelligence is often misunderstood as a soft skill, but research shows it accounts for nearly 90 percent of what sets high performers apart from their peers. In reality, emotional intelligence is a leadership superpower. It influences how we listen, how we respond, and how we build cultures that thrive.

Recently on The Bliss Business Podcast, leadership coach and entrepreneur David Greer joined us to explore why emotional intelligence is more critical today than ever. His insights reveal how leaders can overcome blind spots, shift behaviors, and unlock growth from the inside out.

Growth from the Inside Out

David reminded us that change begins within. Many leaders hire a coach expecting external answers, but the real work often lies in self-awareness. Leaders frequently get in their own way, relying on “my way or the highway” approaches that served them early in their journey but limit growth later on.

Cultivating emotional intelligence means slowing down, listening fully, and holding space for others. Something as simple as curiosity becomes a powerful tool. Instead of assuming why a task wasn’t completed, leaders who ask questions uncover whether expectations were unclear, resources were lacking, or fear was at play.

Blind Spots in Leadership

One of the most common barriers David encounters is the tendency of entrepreneurs to hire talented leaders but then reclaim control the moment their methods differ. This not only undermines trust but drives away the very people hired to fill critical gaps.

Emotional intelligence allows leaders to let go. It teaches them to provide the goal, then allow others to reach it in their own way. Growth stalls when leaders cannot release control, but flourishes when people are empowered to shine.

Slowing Down to Go Fast

David also emphasized the importance of rhythm and reflection. Through frameworks like the One Page Strategic Plan, he guides companies to step away from daily chaos and focus on quarterly priorities.

Thirteen weeks is long enough to achieve meaningful progress yet short enough to recalibrate if conditions change. These rhythms, paired with weekly accountability, create clarity and reduce the tendency to react impulsively. As David explained, clarity itself is a form of kindness.

The Role of Purpose

Purpose is another anchor for emotional intelligence. Companies that articulate a deeper mission give employees a reason to show up with commitment beyond a paycheck. Purpose-driven organizations innovate more, retain talent longer, and foster cultures aligned with shared values.

Purpose connects people to something larger than their tasks, infusing work with meaning that sustains engagement through challenges.

Love in Leadership

Perhaps most powerful was David’s reflection on love. He recalled a colleague who told him that she only accomplished what once felt impossible because he believed in her potential. That belief, rooted in love and trust, created the conditions for growth.

Leadership rooted in love is not about sentimentality. It is about seeing people as they are, believing in who they can become, and creating safe spaces where they can stretch beyond their limits.

Key Takeaways

• Emotional intelligence is not optional for leaders; it is a strategic advantage.

• Listening and curiosity are essential skills that build trust and clarity.

• Letting go of control empowers talented teams to thrive.

• Rhythm and reflection create the space to grow faster by slowing down.

• Purpose inspires long-term commitment beyond transactions.

• Love in leadership is the ultimate catalyst for human and organizational growth.

Final Thoughts

Emotional intelligence is more than a personal trait — it is the foundation of leadership that transforms organizations. By embracing curiosity, purpose, and love, leaders can unlock growth not just for their companies but for themselves.

Check out our full conversation with David Greer on The Bliss Business Podcast.