VIEFor many years, students have been taught that academic success is the key to unlocking their future. Grades, diplomas, and achievements have often been treated as the ultimate measure of worth. Yet, growing research – and countless real-life stories – are raising an important question: Are grades alone enough to lead to a fulfilling, meaningful, and sustainable life?
In reality, those who thrive in the long run, overcome challenges, and build meaningful relationships are often not the ones with the highest grades – but those who know how to manage their emotions, understand themselves, and connect deeply with others.
In other words, they have high Emotional Quotient (EQ).
What Is EQ and Why Does It Matter?
EQ (Emotional Quotient) – or emotional intelligence – is the ability to recognize, understand, and regulate your own emotions, while also empathizing and communicating effectively with others. It is not about being “soft” or simply “good with words.” Rather, it is a set of core skills that help individuals respond wisely, stay calm in times of uncertainty, and build relationships that truly last.
A student with strong EQ often:
- Understands what they are feeling and why
- Knows how to manage negative emotions instead of letting them dictate their actions
- Communicates effectively, listens attentively, and builds trust with others
- Stays confident, motivated, and resilient under pressure
While IQ helps us “solve problems correctly,” EQ helps us “solve the right problems.” Many academically strong students still struggle with burnout, depression, or a lack of direction – not because they lack ability, but because they have not yet learned to connect with their emotions and deeper needs.
Emotional Education – the Missing Piece in Schools?
In Vietnam, as in many other Asian education systems, emotional skills are rarely taught in a structured way. Students learn to solve equations, write essays, and memorize formulas. But they are rarely asked: “How are you feeling today?” or “What happens inside you when you fail?”
As a result, many students become skilled at avoiding emotions. They bury negative feelings under high grades, busy schedules, or external expectations. Yet emotions cannot be suppressed forever. At some point, unaddressed feelings may resurface as stress, crisis, or harmful behavior.
How Can Students Develop EQ?
EQ is not something you are simply “born with” – it can absolutely be developed. And students can begin with small, practical steps:
- Name your emotions – Practice putting feelings into words: “I feel nervous,” “I’m confused,” “I’m a little sad because my score wasn’t what I expected.”
- Reflect daily – At the end of each school day, ask yourself: “What made me happy today?” “When did I feel stressed?” “What did I learn from those emotions?”
- Listen actively – When friends share their feelings, be truly present – without judgment, and without rushing to give advice.
- Seek the right support – A mentor, teacher, or parent can help students learn healthier ways to process emotions – especially when adults listen with empathy and guide with care.
Mentoring – Beyond Academics, Toward Emotional Growth
At Mentors14, we believe emotional skills are the foundation of all sustainable success. That’s why every mentoring journey goes beyond grades, majors, or essays. It is also about helping students listen to themselves, embrace imperfection, and step courageously outside their comfort zone.
A great mentor doesn’t just give advice. A mentor helps students truly understand themselves – and from there, learn how to lead their own path. That is the most enduring value of mentoring.
EQ: The Compass for Living Authentically, Deeply, and Resiliently
When students learn to befriend their emotions, they don’t just grow stronger academically. They also build healthier relationships, navigate psychological challenges, and live with greater clarity, purpose, and joy.
So, instead of asking only “What score did you get today?” let’s begin asking: “What did you discover about yourself today?”
👉 Read the Vietnamese version here.