A wide range of literature suggests that people differ in the extent to which they control, process and regulate their emotions. This study builds on these theories. Self-concept explains individual differences in emotional intelligence and psychological well-being. A simple and multi-mediator model using bootstrap analysis tested these relationships using a simple of students (Study 1, n=83) and workers (Study 2, n=65). Results confirmed the hypothesized mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between self-concept and psychological well-being in both studies. After controlling for the interrelated aspects of EI, indirect effects were found for «mood regulation/optimism» and «social skills» in both studies and for «using emotions», even if negative, in study 2. Our results confirm and extend previous research on the antecedents of EI and have important implications for how people act in different situation.