The RULER Revolution: How Emotional Intelligence is Transforming Classrooms and Workplaces

From Bullying to Belonging: The Science-Backed Approach Making Waves Worldwide

Imagine a school where students start each day by checking in with their emotions, where teachers model vulnerability and compassion, and where the principal knows every child by name—and by feeling. This is not a utopian fantasy, but the reality in thousands of schools using the RULER approach, pioneered by Marc Brackett and his team at Yale. RULER stands for Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions, and its impact is nothing short of revolutionary.

Research shows that schools implementing RULER see dramatic drops in bullying and disciplinary incidents, higher academic performance, and improved teacher morale. Students learn to navigate conflict, support each other, and advocate for their needs. Teachers report feeling less burnout and more connected to their students. The secret? Emotional intelligence isn’t an add-on—it’s woven into the fabric of daily life, from classroom routines to school policies.

But the RULER revolution doesn’t stop at the school gate. Forward-thinking companies are embracing emotional intelligence to build healthier, more innovative workplaces. Leaders who model self-awareness and empathy inspire trust and loyalty. Teams that value emotional skills are more creative, resilient, and adaptable in the face of change. Studies cited in 'Permission to Feel' show that organizations with high emotional intelligence outperform their competitors—not just in profits, but in employee well-being and retention.

At the heart of RULER’s success is the idea that emotions are not a distraction from learning or productivity—they are the foundation. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they are free to take risks, solve problems, and collaborate. This culture of belonging starts with a simple question: How are you feeling?

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or business leader, you can start the RULER revolution in your own community. Begin with small steps: create space for emotional check-ins, model vulnerability, and teach the language of feelings. The ripple effects will touch every aspect of life, from classrooms to boardrooms, and beyond.

In a world hungry for connection and meaning, emotional intelligence is more than a skill set—it’s a movement. Will you join?