What really matters for success, character, happiness and lifelong achievements is a definite set of emotional skills – your EQ- not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests. (2023/150 Words)
It is often stated that the path to getting through the prestigious Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination lies in sheer hard work, relentless practice, and primarily, an exceptional Intelligence Quotient (IQ). However, this path, exclusively influenced by cognitive abilities, is not the full story. In reality, achieving success, character, happiness, and lifelong achievements doesn’t rest solely on your IQ. Deeper into the realm of psychological competencies, lies a skill set often under-emphasized but equally important – Emotional Intelligence (EQ).
EQ, or Emotional Quotient, refers to the capacity to understand, manage and effectively express one’s feelings, along with navigating similar interactions with others. It plays a crucial role in live scenarios, enabling aspirants to handle pressure, make decisions impartially, and lead with empathy. With UPSC tests not only for your cognitive skills but also for values, morals, and emotional stability, let’s delve into why EQ holds as much importance as IQ, with an emphasis on the Indian context.
1. Handling Pressure:
Indian aspirants often face intense pressure throughout their UPSC journey, stemming from high expectations, huge competition, and intense studies. This pressure can lead to anxiety, stress, or depression if not channelled properly. Here, a balanced EQ can come to your rescue. It enables you to manage your emotions and maintain mental stability. Remember, a healthy mind fosters cognitive development, thereby enhancing your IQ.
2. Impartial Decision Making:
A significant part of UPSC examination and further responsibilities upon selection, rests upon decision-making capabilities. This is where EQ steps in. It allows you to understand and respect diverse perspectives, making you capable of making unbiased and all-inclusive decisions. Considering the socio-cultural diversity in India, a strong EQ promotes fairness, thereby fostering a strong character, which is indispensable for a UPSC aspirant.
3. Empathy in Leadership:
Once selected, civil servants work in close quarters with the population, often addressing their grievances and ensuring the implementation of welfare policies. In such a scenario, empathy emerges as a critical skill. High EQ fosters empathy, an ability to connect and respond to the feelings of others, which adds a humane touch to leadership, a quality necessary for civil servants.
4. Long-term Happiness and Accomplishments:
While IQ might aid in acquiring knowledge and cracking the examination, EQ cultivates resilience to face failures and manage success. It initiates self-awareness and self-regulation, leading to a balanced approach towards life. This eventually implants long-term happiness, satisfaction, and meaningful accomplishment in career and personal life, which goes beyond clearing any examination.
5. Fostering Interpersonal Skills:
UPSC interview or ‘Personality Test’ doesn’t evaluate your intelligence alone; rather, it assesses your overall personality, including interpersonal skills. EQ enriches these skills, enabling you to engage in meaningful conversation, exhibit active listening, show respect and appreciation for others perspectives. In the diverse cultural landscape of India, this is an invaluable skill in both professional and social settings.
To illustrate this relationship further, consider the administrative tenure of an IAS officer, S.R. Sankaran, famously known as the ‘People’s IAS officer’. His high EQ was reflected in his empathetic approach to work and pro-people policies in administrative practices.
In conclusion, while cognitive abilities reflected by IQ tests are vital in clearing UPSC, the long-term sustenance, achievement and success largely depend on EQ. It’s an essential facet that grows and enriches your personality, helping you in turning from an aspirant into a successful civil servant. Therefore, it’s time your preparation involves not only IQ enhancement but also systematic EQ development.
