The concept of emotional intelligence (EI) has gained significant importance in understanding human behavior, particularly in personal development, education, and organizational settings. Emotional intelligence is broadly defined as the ability to perceive, understand, manage, and regulate emotions in oneself and others. Over time, scholars and psychologists have proposed various models to conceptualize and measure EI, with mixed models emerging as an important framework. Mixed models combine elements of personality traits, social competencies, and cognitive abilities to provide a more comprehensive understanding of emotional intelligence. These models suggest that emotional intelligence is not solely about skills or abilities but also encompasses behaviors, motivations, and personal characteristics that influence how effectively a person responds to emotional situations. Mixed models of emotional intelligence integrate both ability-based and trait-based approaches. Ability-based models, such as the one proposed by Mayer and Salovey, focus on EI as a set of mental abilities that involve perceiving, using, understanding, and managing emotions. Trait-based models, like those proposed by Petrides, view EI as a constellation of personality traits and self-perceptions that affect how individuals interact with their environment. Mixed models bridge these perspectives by including both measurable emotional abilities and broader behavioral competencies, emphasizing the practical application of emotional intelligence in everyday life. Among the most recognized mixed models is Daniel Goleman’s framework, which highlights five core components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence in mixed models. It refers to the ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions, as well as the impact these emotions have on thoughts and behavior. Individuals with high self-awareness are able to accurately assess their strengths and weaknesses, leading to more effective decision-making and interpersonal interactions. Mixed models suggest that self-awareness is not purely an internal cognitive process but is influenced by personality traits, experiences, and social contexts. Being aware of one’s emotional state allows individuals to manage their responses, avoid impulsive behavior, and maintain a sense of emotional balance, which is crucial