Paolo, you often talk about emotional intelligence—how do you define it personally?

When I talk about emotional intelligence, it’s not just some leadership theory or buzzword—it’s the heartbeat of how we move through life. For me, it’s the ability to connect with yourself and others in a way that goes beyond just logic or intellect. It’s the force that makes relationships work, that helps you understand the undercurrents of what people are really feeling, and that allows you to respond in ways that are real, human, and impactful.

Emotional intelligence starts with self-awareness. It’s about knowing yourself—really knowing yourself. Not just what you’re good at or what you’re bad at, but what drives you, what scares you, what excites you. It’s about recognizing how your emotions influence your decisions and actions, and then being able to step back and say, “Okay, I see what’s happening here.” If you don’t have that internal understanding, you’re basically flying blind. You end up reacting to situations instead of being able to navigate them with intention.

But it’s not just about you—it’s about how you connect with others. Emotional intelligence is being able to tune into the emotional climate around you. It’s the ability to pick up on what’s not being said, to understand how people are really feeling, and to respond in a way that makes them feel seen and heard. That’s where the real power lies. Whether you’re leading a team, negotiating with a client, or just having a conversation with a friend, emotional intelligence allows you to go deeper, to build trust, and to create real connections.

And it’s not just about being soft or empathetic—emotional intelligence is what allows you to adapt when things don’t go according to plan. When stress hits, or when there’s conflict, people with strong emotional intelligence don’t just get swept away by the situation. They can step back, assess what’s happening emotionally—for themselves and for others—and then choose how to respond, rather than just reacting. That’s where real leadership comes from.

It’s what separates someone who can manage tasks from someone who can lead people. You can have all the technical skills in the world, but if you don’t know how to read a room, how to handle difficult conversations, how to inspire people by connecting with them on a human level—you’re missing the most important piece.

For me, emotional intelligence is about authenticity. It’s about showing up as your whole self, being aware of your emotions without being controlled by them, and being able to understand the emotional realities of others without being overwhelmed by them. It’s not about being perfect, or always having the right answer—it’s about being present, being aware, and being human in everything you do.

At the end of the day, emotional intelligence is what makes us truly effective in the world—not just at work, but in every aspect of our lives. It’s what helps us build relationships that matter, solve problems that really impact people, and lead in a way that’s real, grounded, and connected. Without it? We’re just going through the motions. With it? We’re creating something far more powerful.