What The Good Place Teaches Us About Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a key ingredient for personal growth and meaningful relationships — and it’s a core theme in the hit TV show The Good Place. 

The show is set in an utopian afterlife aptly named The Good Place. It follows the journey of four recently deceased humans as they’re forced to confront their flaws and work together to improve themselves and the new world they find themselves in. 

The characters’ emotional journeys offer valuable lessons about emotional intelligence. Some of the characters are strong in some factors of EQ while massively lacking in others. Let’s explore how each main character exemplifies (or grows toward) emotional intelligence in their own unique way, and how their experiences can help you on your own EQ growth journey. 

Chidi: The Self-Aware Intellectual

EQ Strength: Self-Awareness
Chidi Anagonye is a master of self-awareness (the ability to understand what you’re feeling and why). The moral philosophy professor constantly analyzes his thoughts, feelings and ethical dilemmas. His overthinking often leads to indecision, but throughout the series he becomes more aware of how his overthinking holds him back, and learns to trust his instincts. 

Takeaway: Self-awareness is about recognizing your emotions and motivations — but don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis. If you, like Chidi, are a self-awareness superstar, make sure you're balancing your thoughtful reflections with practical decision-making. 

Tahani: The Social Butterfly 

EQ Strength: Other Awareness
Tahani Al-Jamil is deeply attuned to social dynamics. Her strong other awareness (the ability to perceive others’ emotions) allows her to navigate complex social situations and charm those around her. She sometimes seeks external validation to a fault, but her awareness of others’ needs also leads to meaningful relationships.

Takeaway: Emotional intelligence thrives when we use our awareness of others to build deeper, more authentic connections — beyond surface-level recognition. If you have high other awareness, you may get caught up in what others think, so make sure to balance this with objective data and your personal values when making decisions. 

Jason: The Optimist

EQ Strength: Wellbeing
Jason Mendoza embodies the power of finding joy in the moment. His natural optimism and simple pleasures — whether it’s playing video games or sharing a “Molotov cocktail shrimp” recipe — highlight emotional wellbeing (the ability to care for your emotional health). While not always the most reflective, Jason’s upbeat attitude contributes to his emotional resilience.

Takeaway: Emotional wellbeing is about cultivating a positive outlook and appreciating life’s small joys. While it’s healthy to look at the bright side, it’s also important to recognize and accept your less-than-pleasant feelings, and to be mindful of how others feel. Sometimes people need a pep talk, and sometimes they need a shoulder to cry on. 

Michael: The Empathetic Ally

EQ Strength: Empathy
Michael, the architect of the afterlife experiment, undergoes a remarkable transformation. His journey from a manipulative demon to a compassionate ally illustrates the power of empathy (the ability to relate to the emotional experiences of others). By understanding human struggles, Michael builds genuine connections with the group and becomes motivated to help them.

Takeaway: Empathy allows us to truly see and support others. Practicing compassion transforms relationships and helps us grow emotionally. But be careful not to take on others’ feelings as your own, which can be overwhelming, especially if it leads to neglecting your own needs. 

Janet: The Emotional Anchor

EQ Strength: Emotional Control
Janet’s composure under pressure sets her apart. As a not-a-girl, not-a-robot being, she manages her emotions with exceptional grace. Whether assisting the group or solving cosmic problems, Janet channels her feelings into productive actions without letting stress derail her focus.

Takeaway: Emotional control (the ability to control your emotions and behaviors) helps us stay calm and respond constructively, even when things don’t go as planned. But be careful not to use your emotional control as a shield to protect against true vulnerability. Being open and honest about how you feel is an important part of building and maintaining healthy relationships. 

Eleanor: The Ultimate EQ Glow-Up

No one has an EQ glow-up like Eleanor Shellstrop, who’s self-improvement journey is the heart of The Good Place. Starting off selfish and impulsive, she grows into an emotionally intelligent and balanced leader:

• Self-Awareness: Eleanor begins by avoiding introspection but becomes more reflective, acknowledging her flaws and working to improve.
• Other Awareness: Initially tone-deaf to others’ emotions, Eleanor develops a keen sense of her friends’ needs, deepening her relationships.
• Emotional Control: From impulsive outbursts to measured responses, Eleanor learns to manage her emotions effectively.
• Empathy: Her self-centeredness gives way to genuine care for others, driven by her connections with the group.
• Wellbeing: Eleanor’s emotional stability grows alongside her moral and relational growth, leading to a more fulfilling life (and afterlife).

Takeaway: Growth in emotional intelligence is a journey. By working on self-awareness, other awareness, emotional control, empathy and wellbeing, anyone can evolve into a better version of themselves and improve their relationships, career and overall quality of life. 

Final Thoughts

The Good Place teaches us that emotional intelligence isn’t static — it’s a skill we can all develop. Whether you’re naturally self-aware like Chidi or learning to manage emotions like Eleanor, the show reminds us that growth is possible for everyone. 

Wondering where you score among the five factors of emotional intelligence? Find out by taking Truity’s Emotional Intelligence test.