Mixed Model of Emotional Intelligence
(Daniel Goleman, 1995)
The Mixed Model of Emotional Intelligence (EI) was introduced by Daniel Goleman in his 1995
book Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Unlike the Ability Model (which
treats EI as a cognitive skill) and the Trait Model (which sees EI as a personality characteristic), the
Mixed Model combines elements of both—incorporating emotional abilities, personality traits, and
social competencies.
Key Features of the Mixed Model:
EI is a combination of abilities, traits, and social skills – It includes both cognitive and behavioral
aspects of emotional intelligence.
EI is essential for personal and professional success – Goleman emphasized that EI is more
important than IQ in determining leadership effectiveness and career growth.
EI can be developed through practice and training – Unlike personality traits, which are relatively
stable, emotional intelligence skills can be cultivated over time.
The Five Components of Emotional Intelligence (Goleman’s Model) : -
Goleman’s Mixed Model consists of five key components that determine how effectively a person
manages emotions in personal and professional life:
1. Self-Awareness
The ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and
motivations.
Key Aspects:
Emotional self-awareness – Identifying one’s emotions and their impact.
Accurate self-assessment – Recognizing strengths and weaknesses.
Self-confidence – A strong sense of self-worth and abilities.
✅ Example: A manager who realizes they are feeling frustrated before a meeting and takes a
moment to calm down before speaking.
🛠 How to Improve:
Practice mindfulness to become more aware of emotions.
Keep a journal to track emotional triggers.
Seek feedback from others about emotional responses.
2. Self-Regulation (Self-Management)
The ability to control and manage emotions effectively, avoiding impulsive reactions and staying
calm under pressure.
Key Aspects:
Emotional control – Managing disruptive emotions and impulses.
Transparency – Being honest and maintaining integrity.
Adaptability – Flexibility in handling change.
Achievement drive – Striving for excellence.
✅ Example: An employee who remains calm and professional even when receiving negative
feedback.
🛠 How to Improve:
Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques.
Reframe negative thoughts to maintain emotional balance.
Develop problem-solving strategies to handle stress.
3. Motivation
The ability to use emotions to stay focused, set goals, and persist in the face of challenges.
Key Aspects:
Achievement orientation – Striving to improve and excel.
Commitment – Aligning goals with values.
Initiative – Taking proactive steps toward objectives.
Optimism – Maintaining a positive outlook despite setbacks.
✅ Example: A student who fails an exam but remains motivated to study harder and improve in
the next attempt.
🛠 How to Improve:
Set clear, meaningful goals.
Cultivate a growth mindset by viewing failures as learning opportunities.
Surround yourself with positive influences and role models.
4. Empathy (Social Awareness)
The ability to recognize and understand the emotions of others, fostering better relationships and
social interactions.
Key Aspects:
Empathy – Understanding others' emotions and perspectives.
Organizational awareness – Recognizing group dynamics and social cues.
Service orientation – Helping others and meeting their emotional needs.
✅ Example: A teacher who notices that a student is struggling emotionally and offers support.
🛠 How to Improve:
Practice active listening—focus on what the other person is saying without interrupting.
Try to see situations from others' perspectives.
Develop emotional attunement by observing facial expressions and body language.
5. Social Skills (Relationship Management)
The ability to build and maintain healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and influence
others.
Key Aspects:
Communication skills – Expressing oneself clearly and confidently.
Conflict management – Resolving disagreements constructively.
Leadership – Inspiring and guiding individuals and teams.
Collaboration and teamwork – Working well with others to achieve common goals.
✅ Example: A leader who handles workplace conflicts diplomatically, ensuring that both sides feel
heard and valued.
🛠 How to Improve:
Develop assertive (not aggressive) communication skills.
Learn negotiation and conflict resolution techniques.
Build rapport by showing genuine interest in people’s thoughts and emotions.
How the Mixed Model is Measured
Goleman’s Mixed Model of EI is typically measured using self-report assessments and 360-degree
feedback (where colleagues, managers, and subordinates provide evaluations). The most well-
known assessment tools include:
Emotional and Social Competency Inventory (ESCI) – Developed by Goleman and Boyatzis to
assess emotional intelligence in leadership roles.
Emotional Intelligence Appraisal – Used for personal and professional development.
Applications of the Mixed Model of EI
1. Personal Development
Helps individuals recognize and regulate their emotions.
Enhances self-motivation and resilience in handling life challenges.
2. Leadership and Workplace Success
Leaders with high EI are better at motivating teams, resolving conflicts, and handling workplace
stress.
Employees with high EI collaborate effectively and adapt well to change.
3. Mental Health and Well-Being
Self-awareness and self-regulation reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Empathy and social skills improve interpersonal relationships and emotional support.
4. Education and Teaching
Teachers with high EI create emotionally supportive classrooms.
Students with high EI perform better in academics and social interactions.
Criticism of the Mixed Model
Conceptual Overlap – Critics argue that the model mixes emotional intelligence with personality
traits and social skills, making it less distinct from traditional psychological traits.
Lack of Standardized Measurement – Unlike the Ability Model, which uses performance-based
tests, the Mixed Model relies on subjective self-assessments, which may be biased.
Difficult to Define and Measure – Some researchers argue that "emotional intelligence" as defined
by Goleman is too broad and includes general leadership and communication skills rather than a
distinct form of intelligence.
Conclusion
The Mixed Model of Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman presents EI as a combination of
emotional abilities, personality traits, and social competencies. It emphasizes the role of EI in
personal success, leadership, and workplace effectiveness. While it is widely used in corporate
training and leadership development, it has been criticized for lack of clear distinction from
personality traits.
