Humans have long been fascinated by intelligence. Until recently, we believed that the ability to solve complex problems, understand abstract concepts, and acquire knowledge was the most important aspect of intelligence. Called intellectual intelligence and measured by intellectual quotient, we considered IQ the primary measure of success.

Then, in the 90s, the concept of emotional intelligence, or EQ, was introduced. This idea suggested that the ability to understand and manage emotions, empathize with others, and communicate effectively was just as important as intellectual intelligence and there was a lot of evidence to prove it.

EQ challenged the traditional view of intelligence and opened up a new way of understanding what it means to be intelligent. However, the introduction of EQ inadvertently skipped a logical step in the expansion of our definition of intelligence.

In order to be emotionally intelligent, self-awareness needs to be present. And in order to have self-awareness, you need to manage your thoughts in a healthy and productive way, or have a type of intelligence called mindset intelligence.

What is mindset intelligence, and how is it different from IQ?

At its core, mindset intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your thoughts and beliefs in order to maximize our potential and achieve your goals. Based on the idea that your mindset – the set of beliefs, attitudes, and assumptions that you hold about yourself and the world – mindset intelligence has a powerful impact on your success and happiness.

Mindset intelligence is something that can be developed and improved over time. And research suggests that our mindset can be even more important than our IQ in determining our success, happiness, and overall well-being.

Mindset intelligence is measured by a mindset quotient, meaning it is measured by how skilled you are in 4 key areas.

What are the four key areas that make up a mindset quotient?

Thought Awareness

The first key area of mindset intelligence is the ability to be aware of your thoughts. This means being able to recognize when you are feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed, and identifying the thoughts and beliefs that contribute to these feelings. It also means being able to recognize when you are feeling positive, optimistic, and motivated, and identifying the thoughts and beliefs that are contributing to these feelings.

Why is awareness of thoughts important? Simply put, you cannot change what you are not aware of. If you are not aware of our negative or limiting thoughts, you cannot work to change them. By increasing our awareness of our thoughts and emotions, you can understand how our mindset is influencing our behavior and outcomes.

Thought Management

The second key area of mindset intelligence is the ability to manage your thoughts. This means being able to challenge and reframe negative or limiting thoughts and replace them with more positive and empowering ones. It also means being able to regulate ruminating thoughts, so you can stay focused, motivated, and resilient in the face of challenges.

Why is management of thoughts important? Thoughts and beliefs have a powerful impact on your behavior and outcomes. If you are constantly thinking negative or limiting thoughts, you are likely to experience negative or limiting outcomes. By learning to manage your thoughts and emotions, you can take control of your mindset and achieve more positive and empowering outcomes.

Mindset Agility

The third key area of mindset intelligence is mindset agility. This means being able to think creatively and flexibly, and adapt to new situations and challenges. It also means being able to see things from multiple perspectives and consider different possibilities and solutions.

Why is thought agility important? In today’s rapidly changing world, the ability to think creatively and adaptively is more important than ever. By developing thought agility, you become more, a more effective problem-solver, more innovative thinker, and more resilient in the face of change.

Social Consciousness

The fourth and final key area of mindset intelligence is social consciousness. This means being able to maintain your own beliefs and values, even in the face of differing opinions or external pressures. It also means being able to receive feedback and criticism without taking it personally, and using it to improve yourself and your outcomes.

Why is social consciousness important? The opinions and beliefs of those around you heavily influence your mindset. If you are constantly taking on the thoughts and beliefs of others, you are likely to lose sight of our own values and priorities.