The Leading Predictor of Success

In 1995, TIME used the front cover of their magazine to ask one simple question: What is your EQ?

In a study of 265 corporate executives, emotional intelligence (EQ) skills such as strategic thinking, relationship building, people development. vision, adaptability, optimism, empathy, and self-awareness
are more important to leadership success than typical leadership traits such as external/ market orientation, financial intelligence and planning.

Emotional Intelligence is "the capacity to perceive and regulate emotions in oneself as well as those of others and to use emotion to facilitate thought." 
 
In psychology, a person with high emotional intelligence is able to take in emotional experiences and use them for better understanding of the outside world and yourself. For example, self-recognition that you're anxious may lead to constructive examination of your fears and a plan of action for coping strategies to reduce your anxiety.  Failure to "cope" may lead to distraction, disruption and even more anxiety. 

Excellent book on EQ