In *Optimal*, Daniel Goleman and Cary Cherniss reveal how emotional intelligence can help individuals have a great day, any day. They explain how to set realistic, attainable goals to feel satisfied with a productive day and consistently work at an optimal level. Based on research of how hundreds of people build the inner architecture of having a good day, they describe what an optimal state feels like and show how emotional intelligence is key to achieving this state. The book is the culmination of decades of scientific discoveries on emotional intelligence, offering practical methods for enhancing emotional intelligence, improving engagement, productivity, and overall satisfaction. It equips readers to become highly effective leaders and build organizational cultures that empower workers to sustain high performance.
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].
In 'Emotional Alchemy,' Tara Bennett-Goleman offers a transformative approach by blending Buddhist mindfulness with Western cognitive therapy. This book helps individuals recognize and reshape maladaptive emotional patterns, known as schemas, which often stem from early life experiences. By cultivating mindfulness and self-compassion, readers can break free from self-destructive habits and foster more fulfilling relationships and experiences.
In Richer, Wiser, Happier, William Green draws on interviews conducted over twenty-five years with many of the world’s greatest investors. The book highlights that the most successful investors are mavericks and iconoclasts who question conventional wisdom and think rationally, rigorously, and objectively. They maximize their odds of long-term success in markets and life by drawing insights from diverse fields such as neuroscience, economic history, psychology, philosophy, and more. Green explains how these investors can teach us not only how to become rich but also how to improve our thinking, decision-making, risk assessment, and resilience, and how to turn uncertainty to our advantage.
In this book, Brad Stulberg presents a healthier model for success that counters the 'always-on' hustle culture. Groundedness, the central concept, values presence over productivity, accepts nonlinear progress, and prioritizes long-term fulfillment. The book interweaves case studies, modern science, and ancient wisdom from Buddhism, Stoicism, and Taoism to teach readers how to cultivate a more grounded life. Key practices include accepting where you are, being present, developing patience, embracing vulnerability, building deep community, and focusing on the process rather than outcomes.
This workbook is based on the authors' groundbreaking eight-week Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program, which has helped tens of thousands of people worldwide. It includes guided meditations, informal practices, exercises, and stories to help readers address various common problems such as relationship stress, weight and body image issues, health concerns, and anxiety. The book emphasizes the elements of self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness to help readers break free from harsh self-judgments and cultivate emotional well-being[1][2][4].
In this episode, William Green brings back Daniel Goleman, author of “Emotional Intelligence,” an iconic book that’s sold over 5 million copies. Here, Dan talks about his new book, “Optimal: How to Sustain Personal & Organizational Excellence Every Day.” He explains how to master the skills of emotional intelligence to become more productive, more effective, calmer, & happier.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:
00:00 - Intro
04:55 - Why Daniel Goleman seeks sustainable excellence, not a “flow” state.
10:44 - How Peter Lynch illustrates the dangers of driving yourself too hard.
15:54 - Why companies need emotionally intelligent leaders.
17:23 - How to boost creative thinking by allowing yourself time to relax.
32:02 - Why EQ trumps IQ in the professional world.
34:21 - How to enhance the foundational skill of self-awareness.
37:08 - How to become a better listener.
48:39 - What the Dalai Lama told Dan about self-compassion.
49:27 - How emotional self-management enhances decision making.
50:42 - How to recover from stress & avoid burnout.
1:08:50 - How to build focused attention in a wildly distracting world.
Disclaimer: Slight discrepancies in the timestamps may occur due to podcast platform differences.
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