Emotional intelligence, or EI, is one of the most prized skills to have in any profession right now. The term was first coined in 1991 and refers to the ability to identify, express, manage and respond to emotions in a balanced way. If you struggle to understand others or can’t handle criticism well, your EI may need improvement. To do so, experts recommend you practice self-awareness, manage your emotions, practice empathy and improve your social skills. EI can help you manage the most stressful situations without getting stuck in an anxiety loop. An emotionally intelligent leader is not only more likable but also understands what makes teams run best, so the entire workforce can thrive. In an era of layoffs, emotional intelligence can help you make stronger connections with others. That is something that will always improve your chances of being successful.