Emotional intelligence: the key to managing cognitive overload and enhancing quality of life

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-5-2025

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the mediating role of Emotional Intelligence in the relationship between Quality of Life and Cognitive Overload.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative deductive study analysed 500 questionnaires through convenience sampling. The data collection provides a snapshot of Egyptian private universities’ academic staff members through a cross-sectional time horizon. After collecting the necessary data, statistical analyses were conducted through SPSS and AMOS.

Findings

Findings indicate that cognitive overload is directly related to mental noise because individuals cannot focus on several dimensions of life, job, and family. Academic staff members need to eliminate possible intrinsic, extraneous, and germane cognitive overload to enhance their working memory and amplify their performance at work. Findings also show that emotional intelligence can mediate such relationships by managing cognitive overload and enhancing quality of life.

Practical implications

Universities’ management and academic staff may use this study to understand how emotional intelligence can help balance quality of life aspects and eliminate cognitive overload by controlling attention, monitoring mental, physical, and psychological health, creating a relaxing atmosphere for work, and enhancing teaching and learning.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the three different types of cognitive overload and how to manage each type in the workplace. It addressed the literature gap by developing measurements for quality of life and cognitive overload, contributing to the conceptual clarity of the constructs and their measurements. It also reflects on how emotional intelligence could solve the mental burden faced at the workplace while enhancing satisfaction.

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