Over the years, I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking about Emotional Intelligence and how it fits in to how many people live their lives now, lives which, for many, are much more multi-hyphenate, multi-stage.

With that comes much more uncertainty. I’ve read a lot by Daniel Goleman, who argues unequivocally that EI (or EQ) is as important as IQ for success in all elements of your life, especially how you navigate your working life, private life, relationships and physical and mental wellbeing. I’d also argue that society collectively benefits from investing in its emotional intelligence learning. Dr Goleman talked about the Dalai Lama addressing a group of gatherers in India: 

"Like physical education, learning emotional hygiene is in great need today.” 

I’d definitely agree with that as capitalism and all its symptoms – racism, fear, inequality, intolerance – becomes much more visible in everything we do.

So, Emotional Intelligence covers things like empathy, self management, self awareness, social skills….and I must admit that, with some of the horrible shit going on in the world, I’ve found it harder and harder to maintain particularly empathy and self management towards others that are displaying some of the most toxic behaviour at the level where I want them to be.

But, I was reminded when the good old Instagram algorithm worked and showed me an interview with a woman reaffirming just how important empathy is – even when we feel at our most desolate - if we are going to tackle the divisions that the world faces. 

And I think that affirmation was what I needed, I guess to believe again.

So, with my little piece of self-righteousness over, it’s time to clumsily segue into introducing Iris Gold who is the most wonderful singer, songwriter, artist and, dare I say it, fashion icon. I really love the energy, creativity, vitality and honesty in her music.

When I thought about how I would describe her, the one phrase that comes to my mind is from Toi Derricotte’s poem The Telly Cycle and that is….. “Joy Is An Act Of Resistance” 

https://www.iwannajumplikedeedee.com


I Wanna Jump Like Dee Dee is the music podcast that does music interviews differently.

Giles Sibbald talks to musicians, DJ’s and producers about how they use an experimental mindset in every part of their lives.

- brought to you from the mothership of the experimental mindset™
- cover art by Giles Sibbald
- doodle logo and art by Tide Adesanya, Coppie and Paste