On Managing Yourself

Simply put, the research showed that "good guys"—that is, emotionally intelligent men and women—finish first. Emotional intelligence (EI) is a game-changer. It encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Leaders with high EI create environments where trust, healthy risk-taking, and learning flourish. They are better equipped to: EI is not just a "soft" skill; it has tangible impacts on business outcomes. Research has consistently shown that leaders with high emotional intelligence outperform their peers in areas such as: The leader's mood and behaviors

Lesson 1: Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership

This insight from On Managing Yourself challenges conventional wisdom about success. Harvard Business Review demonstrates through research and case studies that how we think and feel about the subject matters more than technical knowledge or raw intelligence.

Lesson 2: A leader's mood is contagious and impacts organizational performance

This principle from On Managing Yourself is backed by Harvard Business Review's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 3: Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional leadership

This insight from On Managing Yourself challenges conventional wisdom about success. Harvard Business Review demonstrates through research and case studies that how we think and feel about the subject matters more than technical knowledge or raw intelligence.

How to Apply On Managing Yourself's Lessons

The real value of On Managing Yourself lies in its applicability. After reading, the most important step is identifying which of Harvard Business Review's principles speak most directly to your current situation.

Consider keeping a journal while reading — noting where the ideas challenge your current approach and where they confirm what you already suspected. The friction of your own resistance often points to the most important insights.

Key Quote

"Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership" — Harvard Business Review, On Managing Yourself

About the Author

Harvard Business Review is the author of On Managing Yourself. The book reflects years of research, observation, and synthesis of evidence from multiple disciplines.