The role of emotional intelligence in achieving work-life balance: An analysis of research trends and implications

This research explores the significance of emotional intelligence in work-life balance, including what impact effective use of this intelligence would have on work and family relationships, mindfulness, and the work-family interface. The aim is to outline the research field, pinpoint gaps, and see how the research trajectory has changed over the course of time. Using bibliometric analysis based on Web of Science data from 1992 to 2025, the study analyzes trends in publication, key contributors, and thematic developments. The researchers followed a structured process to select and review 477 documents from 256 sources. The evidence indicates that emotional intelligence enhances work-life balance by enabling people to cope with stress, handle adversity, and form better relationships. Interest has grown in the application of emotional intelligence in the areas of job satisfaction, individual resilience, and performance. The studies touch on advantages of emotional intelligence in decision-making as well as resolving conflicts, with an emphasis on its broader organisational value when shared by training and development in leadership. The analysis has implications for business organisations and policy-makers in enhancing employees' overall welfare. The research establishes prominent commentators and institutions in the area, along with opportunities for partnership and further research. Emerging patterns in keyword usage and topic clusters indicate a rising interest in this area, pointing to a timely opportunity to develop evidence-based strategies for fostering more integrated and sustainable work-life models. JEL Codes: I31, J22, J28, M54. Received: 25/02/2025. Accepted: 25/11/2025. Published: 01/04/2026.