Can't I Succeed Without Relational Intelligence?

If so many people succeed without relational intelligence, then why should we care so much about it? It's true, sometimes people are good at getting things done, they are strategic and driven to accomplish tasks, and they don't have to care about or treat people well along the way. Happens all the time.

But here's the thing. It's true that relational intelligence and success don't always go in tandem. But I would argue that the person without RI really loses more than they know. They lose sight of the most meaningful dimension of life, that is people that we journey through life with. At the end of the day, no matter what you accomplish, if there aren't others to share it with, then who really cares, literally?

And second, I would argue that we lose the great pleasure of having substance in our lives. Many of us lose sight of the great enjoyment, fulfillment, and pleasure that comes with living connected to other people in a meaningful way. We forget that our work is not just about the work, but that it is more about who we work with and how we engage our work together. That perspective is what can make our lives more enjoyable and fulfilling.

So do your part wherever you work and live to become relationally intelligent, and you'll find deeper meaning, more purpose behind your work, and you'll find great pleasure along the way.