In 'Altered Traits,' Daniel Goleman and Richard J. Davidson delve into the scientific research behind meditation, highlighting its ability to alter personality traits and benefit both mind and body. The book distinguishes between 'altered states' of consciousness during meditation and 'altered traits,' which are lasting psychological changes. It discusses various levels of meditation practice, from beginner to 'Olympic-level' meditators, and presents findings from over 6,000 scientific studies, focusing on those that meet high methodological standards. The authors explain how meditation can reduce stress, improve emotional health, enhance focus, and even change brain pathways, leading to more equanimity and compassion[1][4][5].
The Meditative Mind explores a wide range of meditation systems, including those from Hinduism, Buddhism, Sufism, and Christianity. It provides insights into the distinct levels of consciousness developed
In 'Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships,' Daniel Goleman explores the emerging science of social intelligence, highlighting how our daily interactions with others shape our brains and bodies. The book delves into the biological impact of relationships, explaining how good relationships can act like vitamins and bad ones like poisons. Goleman discusses topics such as emotional contagion, the accuracy of first impressions, charisma, sexual attraction, and the detection of lies. He also examines the 'dark side' of social intelligence, including narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. The book emphasizes our innate bias toward empathy, cooperation, and altruism, provided we develop the necessary social intelligence. Goleman offers insights into how social intelligence can be developed to improve personal and professional relationships and overall well-being.
In 'Emotional Intelligence,' Daniel Goleman presents a compelling argument that emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for success, happiness, and virtue. Drawing on research in psychology and neuroscience, Goleman explains how EI, which includes self-awareness, self-discipline, and empathy, shapes our destiny. The book details five key skills of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, managing emotions, motivation, recognizing emotions in others, and social skills. Goleman shows how these skills can be nurtured and strengthened throughout adulthood, benefiting our health, relationships, and work performance[2][3][4].
This week’s conversation is with trailblazing psychologist and author of the New York Times bestseller Emotional Intelligence, Dr. Daniel Goleman.
Daniel has transformed the way the world educates children, relates to family and friends, and conducts business.
Well-known for his work in leadership and education, Daniel is also a distinguished voice in the field of meditation.
A meditator since his college days, Daniel spent two years in South Asia, first as a Harvard Predoctoral Traveling Fellow and then again on a Post-Doctoral Fellowship.
His first book, The Meditative Mind: The Varieties of Meditative Experience, was written on the basis of that research, offering an overview of various meditation paths.
Daniel’s other books include: A Force for Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World and Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain and Body.
In this conversation, we discuss his key findings, frameworks, and insights around why emotional intelligence is foundational – and how you can develop it.
_________________
Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more powerful conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and meaning: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMastery
Get exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/
Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter
Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine! https://www.findingmastery.com/morningmindset
Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Finding Mastery with Dr. Michael Gervais 
