WHAT IS EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE?

Many of us find it increasingly difficult to connect in the modern world, both with ourselves and others. An important factor in our ability to successfully connect is emotional intelligence.

 When it comes to happiness and success in our relationships, career and personal goals, (EQ) matters just as much as the better known, intellectual ability (IQ). We need EQ to turn intention into action, in order to make informed decisions about the things that matter most to us and to connect to others in productive and nurturing ways
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WHAT IS EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE?
EQ is the ability to identify, use, understand and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, and empathize with others, overcome challenges and de defuse conflict. This ability also allows us to recognize and understand what others are experiencing emotionally.

This recognition and understanding is, for the most part, a nonverbal process that informs thinking and influences how well you connect with others.

EQ differs from how we think of intellectual ability, in that emotional intelligence is a learned not acquired. This learning can take place at any time in life so the social and emotional skill set, known as emotional intelligence, is something we can all have.

<<< Read more >>> Why is EQ important in the workplace?


 
EQ differs from how we think of intellectual ability

It is important to remember that there is a difference, however, between learning about emotional intelligence and applying that knowledge to your life. Just because you know you should do something doesn’t mean you will, especially when you become overwhelmed by stress which can override your best intentions. In order to permanently change behavior in ways that stand up under pressure, you need to learn how to overcome stress in the moment and in your relationships in order to remain emotionally aware.
 

Emotional intelligence is commonly defined by four attributes:

1. Self-awareness: You recognize your own emotions and how they affect your thoughts and behavior. You know your strengths and weaknesses and have self-confidence;

2. Self-management: You are able to control impulsive feeling and behaviors, manage your emotions in healthy ways, take initiative, follow through on commitments and adapt to changing circumstances;

3. Social awareness: You can understand the emotions, needs and concerns of other people, pick up on emotional cues, feel comfortable socially and recognize the power dynamics in a group or organization;

4. Relationship management: You know how to develop and maintain good relationships, communicate clearly, inspire influence others, work well in team and manage conflict.

5. Take an EQ test now!

 

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