What is emotional intelligence?

Did you know that how you feel can affect the quality of your work? It's true!

After all, you're not a robot, but an emotional being!

Photo by Tengyart on Unsplash

Learning to manage your emotions and relate to others is one of the most in demand skills in the workforce today. It's just as important as the technical skills needed to complete your job.

Emotional intelligence (sometimes call "EQ" for "emotional quotient") means knowing:

• That emotions can influence your behavior.

• That your behavior can have both a positive and negative influence on others.

• When and how to keep your emotions in check, and deal appropriately with the emotions of others.

EQ is like a "master skill" made of more specific skills that work together!

The main skills of EQ are:

• Self-management: You can control emotional impulses without outside help. You're able to keep your promises and follow through on what you commit yourself to.

• Self-awareness: You're aware of your own strengths and weaknesses, with a high level of self-confidence in your abilities.

• Social awareness: You can empathize with others. You can read how they're feeling and recognize their emotional needs.

• Relationship management: You communicate well with others, and fit well in a team environment. You inspire confidence in your teammates, and know how to deal with conflicts amongst each other.

Strong EQ can lead you to:

• Improve relationships with others

• Foster team success at school or work

• Achieve your career and personal goals

• Improve your empathy skills

• Keep cool under pressure

• Examine how you react to stressful situations and take responsibility

• Make better decisions and solve problems

• Listen, reflect, and respond to constructive criticism

The best part is that you can work on improving your EQ if you're aware that there is room for improvement!

This week, try: