During an OECD conference, Jack Ma, the renowned entrepreneur and co-founder of Alibaba Group, shared a thought-provoking quote that encapsulates his perspective on success, emotional intelligence (EQ), intellectual intelligence (IQ), and the quotient of love (LQ). He stated, 

“If you want to be successful, you should have very high EQ, a way to get on with people. If you don’t want to lose quickly, you should have good IQ. But if you want to be respected, you should have LQ—the quotient of love. The brain will be replaced by machines, but machines can never replace your heart.”

This quote reveals Jack Ma’s belief in the importance of three crucial elements for achieving success and leaving a lasting impact on others. Let’s delve into the explanation of each aspect:

Emotional Intelligence (EQ):

Jack Ma emphasizes the significance of high emotional intelligence as a key attribute for success. EQ refers to our ability to recognize, understand, and manage our emotions and effectively navigate interpersonal relationships. Having a high EQ enables us to empathize with others, communicate effectively, and build meaningful connections. It is the capacity to connect with people, understand their needs, and collaborate harmoniously.

Intellectual Intelligence (IQ):

While EQ plays a crucial role, Jack Ma also acknowledges the importance of intellectual intelligence, commonly referred to as IQ. IQ refers to cognitive abilities, such as logical reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Possessing good IQ enables individuals to analyze complex situations, make informed decisions, and effectively adapt to challenges. It provides the intellectual foundation necessary for success in various domains.

Quotient of Love (LQ):

The concept of LQ, or the quotient of love, introduced by Jack Ma, signifies the importance of cultivating compassion, empathy, and genuine care for others. It reflects the capacity to show kindness, understanding, and respect towards fellow human beings. LQ involves fostering a deep sense of connection, embracing diversity, and demonstrating acts of love and service. According to Jack Ma, having LQ is crucial for gaining respect and making a positive impact on those around us.

Jack Ma’s statement also highlights his belief in the enduring value of human qualities that cannot be replicated by machines. While technological advancements continue to reshape various aspects of our lives, including the realm of artificial intelligence, he suggests that the human heart, with its ability to feel, empathize, and love, remains irreplaceable. In an increasingly automated world, the qualities of compassion, genuine care, and emotional connection hold immense importance, distinguishing us as individuals and enabling us to make meaningful contributions to society.

“I learned everything I learned from being a teacher,” he said. “Inspire students. Trust students. Believe in students. Enable them.”-Jack Ma

In conclusion, Jack Ma’s quote encapsulates his perspective on success, emphasizing the significance of high EQ for building relationships, good IQ for avoiding quick failures, and the essential quotient of love (LQ) for earning respect and making a lasting impact. By acknowledging the value of emotional intelligence, intellectual intelligence, and love, Jack Ma underscores the enduring importance of human qualities in a rapidly changing world.