리더의 심장: 너무 뜨겁지도, 차갑지도 않게

by Joshua Freedman

This book will show you how to lead more effectively by engaging your own and your people's emotions.
"...a breath of fresh air.... Very enjoyable and it really works: A must read for every leader."
Jimmy Daniel, Global Leadership Institute, FedEx Express
"...an important read for any leader looking to take it higher."
- Arlene Pfeiff, Vice President, Technologies, American Express
In a new business climate it takes a new style of leadership to excel. Are you ready?

Where other books tell you about emotional intelligence, this book provides the roadmap to put it in action. There are a handful of people in the world who have proven experience raising organizational performance with emotional intelligence. Freedman is one of the leaders. Using stories and data from his work around the world with organizations such as the US Marine Corps, Schlumberger, and FedEx, Freedman provides a practical guide to this critical topic.

At the Heart of Leadership delivers a compelling case for leaders to attend to their own and their people s emotions as a critical asset for optimal performance.

Then it shows you how.

You ll learn the Six Seconds EQ Model, a practical three-step process to become more effective with emotions.

Genres: Leadership, Nonfiction, Personal Development

340 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2007

Reviews

[Vui Lên · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75*

Sách về EQ hay nhất trong số nhiều cuốn mình đã đọc.

Bác viết tốt, đơn giản dễ hiểu dễ áp dụng. Tiếc là cuốn này chưa được dịch ra tiếng Việt.

Đa phần sách tiếng Việt về EQ thì phần lý thuyết quá nhiều, quá nặng nên bà con đọc xong thì biết EQ quan trọng vầy vầy, nhưng thực hành làm sao thì hổng có biết.

Cuốn này tiếng Anh viết dễ đọc, bạn rất rất nên cân nhắc nếu muốn thực hành EQ hiệu quả ngay từ ban đầu.

[Natasha Kvitka · Rating 4 out of 5]

That’s really a good read on emotional intelligence full of actionable advice.

[Carlos Aldan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Business Book That Actually Delivers Results
A Review of "At the Heart of Leadership" by Joshua Freedman
Reviewed by Carlos Aldan de Araujo, Managing Partner, Kronberg

After 14 years implementing Joshua Freedman's emotional intelligence methodologies across Latin America, this isn't just a book review—it's a results report.

The Framework That Works
Freedman's Six Seconds EQ Model—Know, Choose, Give—transforms abstract emotional intelligence into actionable business strategy. Unlike other EQ books that focus on theory, this provides a clear roadmap leaders can implement immediately.

Proven Track Record
Through Kronberg, we've successfully implemented these methodologies across industry giants: Siemens, Toyota, Delta Airlines, TransUnion, Experian, JBS, Hyundai, and dozens more. Each implementation included comprehensive EQ assessments measuring tangible ROI.

Our biggest validation? Co-authoring a Siemens business case with Dr. Paul Stillman that was published by Harvard Business Review—demonstrating how Freedman's framework drives measurable organizational value at scale.

Real Impact
• Measurable Results: Every implementation shows improved leadership effectiveness and team dynamics
• Cultural Adaptability: The model works across diverse Latin American markets and organizational contexts
• Government Recognition: Enabled Joshua to keynote at Brazil's Ministry of Education
• Scientific Rigor: Bridges neuroscience with business logic for solutions that actually work
Bottom Line
"At the Heart of Leadership" doesn't just describe emotional intelligence—it shows you exactly how to implement it for measurable business results. For leaders serious about performance transformation, this book provides the essential framework.

After 14 years of real-world application across Fortune 500 companies, I can confirm: this works.

[Donna Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I know by experience that Joshua Freedman is the G.O.A.T. (the greatest of all time) when it comes to Emotional Intelligence. As one of the pioneers in the field, he was all about EQ before EQ was cool! His book, "The Heart of Leadership," is replete with research, models, exercises, and case studies that make a strong business case (and personal case) for developing EQ.

Two things, in my opinion, set his book/research far above all others. First, Joshua has developed an EQ model comprised of eight specific emotional intelligence competencies. Other models are so generalized that, even if you know you need to grow your EQ, it’s up to you to figure out exactly what that means and how to grow it. He has also created both a self-assessment and a 360-degree assessment built around this model, the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence (SEI) assessments. I take almost every one of my coaching clients through one of the assessments, and the results are always eye-opening to the client and provides feedback clients can sink their development teeth into.

Second, the Six Seconds EQ model is the only one I know of that includes the competency “Pursue Noble Goals,” referring to life purpose. Knowing your purpose is the key to moving from simply being successful in one’s career to being significant in the lives of others. I take many of my coaching clients through the exercise of discovering their life purpose, not just setting their career goals and aspirations. The power and energy released by purpose is remarkable.

This book is a must-have if you want to get serious about growing in emotional intelligence.

[Colin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Freedman reassures us that EQ is learnable and offers practical steps for leaders to implement this in the workplace. At the Heart of Leadership convinces with a simple but elegant EQ model, informed by neuroscience, and backed up by a strong business case with real-life examples. He speaks the language of leaders and doesn’t shy away showing vulnerability when appropriate e.g. what he has learned by letting go of ego.

Later in the book, he guides us step by step to construct our noble goal – an overarching purpose in life – so that we can show up as the leaders we aspire to be in every moment. Personally, I found this concept and process transformative in my life. Any decisions I make, I pass through the prism of my noble goal, so that I can be true to what I value most and create the world I want to live in.

When illustrating the power to choose ourselves, Freedman uses the analogy of water to great effect to explain how we can fight or flow when navigating emotions. He encourages us to stay curious, to find the wisdom in our feelings and to use emotional intelligence to create a culture of trust in organisations.

This book is a reference that I return to again and again – it’s margins are filled with scribbled notes and passages highlighted with coloured pen – signs of a book worth reading.

[Sandra Haddad · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Practical and Insightful Guide to Leading with EQ

At the Heart of Leadership by Joshua Freedman is one of the most impactful books I’ve read on emotional intelligence in leadership. As a certified EQ and resilience coach and a facilitator working across the GCC with senior leaders, I found this book both affirming and deeply practical.
Freedman brings emotional intelligence to life with clarity and simplicity. He doesn't just talk about the importance of EQ—he provides tools and reflections that make it usable in real leadership situations: giving feedback, managing conflict, inspiring teams, and navigating change.
What resonated most with me is the reminder that leadership starts within. This book is a call to lead with self-awareness, empathy, and intention—qualities that are more vital than ever in today’s complex work environments.
Highly recommended for any leader, coach, or facilitator who believes that results and relationships go hand in hand.

[Marcia Lynette · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this work, the author clearly outlines the importance and history of emotional intelligence specifically for leaders. Essentially a business case for EQ, emotions are recognized as assets to leadership, and then a framework for practicing emotional intelligence is introduced and delineated in detail. The Six Seconds model of emotional intelligence is a three-step process, including competencies that make each area more effective, with a focus on integration through the Noble Goal or purpose to present emotional intelligence as a lifestyle that enhances life and leadership. This model and practice of emotional intelligence is the foundation from which all of the emotional development ensues. It becomes EQ in action for those that choose to practice using these tools, with the potential of benefiting their personal and professional lives as they continue their own development personally and professionally.

[Abdullah · Rating 5 out of 5]

"At the Heart of Leadership" by Joshua Freedman is a powerful guide that brings emotional intelligence to the forefront of leadership development. What I appreciate most about this book is its practical, no-nonsense approach. Josh doesn't just talk about theory, he provides actionable tools and relatable examples that can help any leader, coach, or team member apply EQ in daily life.

The book emphasizes that leadership is not just about strategy and results but about building genuine connections, fostering trust, and leading with empathy. It reminded me how crucial self-awareness, emotional management, and empathy are, not just for leading others, but for leading ourselves.

Highly recommended for professionals, educators, managers, and anyone who believes leadership starts from within!

[Reader]

Josh Freedman’s Heart of Leadership solidified the learning that I gained through my EQ Certification journey with 6 Seconds. It is a book I reference often and recommend wholeheartedly. This book brings emotional intelligence to life through practical tools and relatable stories. If you are looking to deepen your understanding of Emotional Intelligence or want to lead with greater awareness and connection, The Heart of Leadership is an essential read.
Avril Kidd, EQ in Action
EQ Facilitator & owner of EQ in Action, PP for 6 Seconds RSA

[Dr David Oxley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear, concise, and deeply practical. At the Heart of Leadership distills emotional intelligence into actionable steps.

I have been fascinated by EQ since it emerged as a mainstream concept in the 1990s, and had read Daniel Goleman’s book a few years ago. Where Goleman introduces the concept, Freedman focuses on why it’s important and how individuals can put it to use. This edition feels in tune with the times, retains its warmth and pragmatism—an invaluable resource for leaders who want results without sacrificing relationships.

[Góc của Tròn]

Học được cách giải quyết cảm xúc của mình thông qua model Know - Choose - Give. Trước giờ mình chỉ mới đi được bước đầu tiên Self-awareness, nhưng nhận diện xong rồi sao nữa thì mình ko biết, bây giờ thực hành trọn vẹn thấy được sự chuyển biến rất tốt. Tuy nhiên còn cần luyện tập nhiều.
Học lắng nghe thông điệp mà cảm xúc muốn gửi đến cho mình, cả cam xúc tiêu cực và tích cực và mình có thể nhận ra những giá trị mình đang theo đuổi consciouly.

[Mara Vernon · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a certified coach and facilitator who is credentialed in two different Emotional Intelligence modalities, I LOVE this book. I don't typically read books rated below 4 on Goodreads so am perplexed by the overall rating of this book. It's SPOT on with neurobiology research and is actionable. My favorite book on emotional intelligence to date.

[Tonya Mathis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Someone I know was reading this book. It looked interesting. Mostly geared towards the workplace, but it can be useful in everyday life. I enjoyed the book and will probably refer back to it now and again.

[Adrienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this one free from the ATD ICE conference. Great quick read with practical steps for incorporating Emotional Intelligence.

[Şenol · Rating 4 out of 5]

İnsanı etkileyen bir kitap idi, okumaya değer.

[Yendry Guerrero · Rating 5 out of 5]

El modelo SEI es un regalo para transformar nuestra IE y el libro un paso a paso para lograr comprender la profundidad de cada competencia.

[Nihad Tadros · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very insightful book. Good read for leaders to learn how to balance the head with the heart "People will not follow you because of your title. They will follow you because of your character.”

[Ingrid Rosenberg Arbenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This booked allowed me to understand and connect with the information that emotions bring which we seldom ever stop to listen. It showed me the key competencies needed to live with emotional intelligence in a complete sense. Before this book I thought I knew a lot about emotional intelligence but after reading this book and applying the competencies which are relatively easy to do, I have improved my wellbeing 1000%. Improving EQ with this model helped me build my current business and improve my relationship with my family.

[Liza · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this an extremely difficult book to read. The first part of the book looked at what emotional intelligence is, and as well as discussing how we can use emotions more effectively it also gave us lots of facts showing how companies that employ people with higher EQ produce better results.

The second part went into a lot of detail about how we can manage our emotions for better results. Sadly, i felt the writing to be very long-winded and repetitive.

[Danalee]

I am reading this for work stuff. Last month I went to our company headquarters to help train the "new hires," this book is a part of their training but I never had it in my training so I have started it recently. I love the premise of the book, Emotional Intelligence! Love this stuff! We'll see if I can be motivated to get into the book...

[Ray Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really connects the dots regarding an action approach for understanding and using Emotional Intelligence competencies. It truly provides you with the data, examples, metaphors and practical tools you can use to IMPROVE your Emotional Intelligence.

Thank You, Joshua Freedman!!!

[Deni Finch-frederick · Rating 3 out of 5]

Starts out well, gets bogged down after the first third.

[Marianne Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for my Master's class in EQ. Really enjoyed it.