Business schools play a major part in leadership development, even amongst new emerging tech and changing industry norms. To develop great leaders, emotional wellbeing is critical. There has been growing recognition about how emotional wellbeing is a key factor in effective leadership.
In fact, 71 percent of employers value emotional intelligence more than technical skills when evaluating candidates. That’s why it’s so important for business schools to teach emotional wellbeing in their curriculum and in turn, create successful, empathetic and resilient leaders.
Why Emotional Wellbeing Matters in Leadership
Emotional intelligence is defined by the ability to understand and manage your emotions, as well as recognise and influence the emotions of those around you. The term was first created in 1990 by researchers John Mayer and Peter Salovey and popularised by psychologist Daniel Goleman.
In recent years, emotional wellbeing has been recognised as an increasingly important factor in the workplace and leadership. A study by Robert Half UK revealed that 60% of UK business leaders consider emotional wellbeing a very important skill for employees. Similarly, a report by Changing Point noted a 25% increase in leadership wellbeing associated with greater emotional intelligence. This shows the importance of business schools integrating emotional wellbeing into the curriculum, as it is so important to the future of leadership.
Leaders with strong emotional intelligence skills can thrive in high-pressure and fast-paced environments and situations. Rather than reacting based on impulse, they can assess challenges rationally and make decisions based on long-term strategy rather than short-term stress responses. It’s important for business school students to learn how to remain composed and communicate effectively, to create trust and make well-informed decisions in their futures in business.
Integrating Emotional Wellbeing into Business Education
Traditionally, business school education focused on technical skills over emotional and psychological wellbeing. However, as it has become clearer that common leadership challenges stem from poor emotional wellbeing such as burnout, poor team management and high employee turnover, it has now become a priority for leaders.
By learning emotional intelligence skills, business school students can learn how to be more adaptable, resilient and have a problem-solving mindset. Resilient leaders can see setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than absolute failures. Emotionally intelligent leaders can be taught to develop a more solution-orientated mindset, fostering innovation and agility.
For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses had to pivot their operations quickly. Leaders with emotional resilience successfully managed transitions to remote work, reassured teams, and adapted business models effectively.
Leaders who are taught emotional intelligence also are better at conflict resolution and relationship management, both with clients and employees. Workplace conflicts are an inevitable part of business life, but emotionally resilient leaders should be able to handle them constructively. They regulate their emotions, actively listen, and foster open communication to resolve disputes while maintaining morale. A study by Daniel Goleman found that 90% of top-performing leaders possess high emotional intelligence.
How can business schools integrate emotional wellbeing into the curriculum
The research shows that to develop well-rounded, resilient leaders, institutions must integrate emotional intelligence and wellbeing into their teaching.
One effective approach is incorporating self-awareness courses that help students understand their emotions, strengths, and areas for growth. These courses encourage introspection and equip students with the skills to manage their own emotional responses while leading others effectively.
Mindfulness and stress management training should also be embedded into business education, providing students with practical techniques to handle workplace pressures. Teaching mindfulness, breathing exercises, and stress reduction strategies can improve focus, decision-making, and overall mental resilience.
Additionally, studying case studies on emotional intelligence can offer valuable insights into how CEOs and other leaders navigate challenges through empathy, adaptability, and effective communication. Analysing both successful and failed leadership examples helps students appreciate the impact of emotional intelligence in business settings.
Coaching and mentorship programmes can also foster emotionally resilient leaders by offering personalised guidance, constructive feedback, and support in professional development. Learning from experienced mentors helps students develop confidence and emotional agility, preparing them for the demands of leadership in complex business environments. By embedding emotional wellbeing into business education, institutions can cultivate leaders who prioritise mental health, foster positive workplace cultures, and drive sustainable success.
The Benefits of Emotional Wellbeing for Future Leaders and Organisations
Emotionally aware leaders create psychologically safe and productive workplaces, where employees feel valued and supported. This improves collaboration, reduces stress, and helps with staff retention. Strong emotional intelligence also enhances ethical decision-making, helping leaders navigate complex challenges with the right mindset. By prioritising wellbeing, organisations build trust with employees, customers, and stakeholders, strengthening corporate reputation and long-term success.
Business schools must recognise emotional wellbeing as a core leadership skill. Integrating emotional intelligence training into the curriculum ensures future leaders can manage workplace challenges with empathy and resilience. Institutions should embed wellbeing into leadership development, preparing graduates to create positive, high-performing organisational cultures. Success depends not just on technical expertise but on emotionally intelligent leadership that drives engagement, innovation, and sustainability.
Joe joined Oxford Business College with a strong background in working with mature adults and crisis support roles. He is dedicated to supporting all staff and students in achieving their full potential as part of the Student Services team.
