Emotional Intelligence

We all know people who are excellent listeners, whether in business or in our personal life. They always seem to know just what to say – and how to say it – so that we aren't insulted or disturbed, no matter what scenario we're in. They're kind and sympathetic, and even if we don't discover a solution to our situation, we usually leave with a renewed sense of hope and optimism.

Developing Strong "People Skills''

We've all met people who are masters at controlling their emotions. In stressful conditions, they do not become enraged. Instead, they can look at an issue and calmly come up with a solution. They make outstanding decisions and know when to rely on their instincts. They are, nevertheless, usually willing to look at themselves honestly, regardless of their strengths.

They are good at taking criticism and knowing when to apply it to better their performance. This type of person has a high level of emotional intelligence. They have a deep understanding of themselves and are able to detect others' emotional needs.

Do you wish you could be more like this?

Organizations are increasingly using emotional intelligence when hiring and promoting employees as more individuals recognize that it is equally as important as technical skill in achieving professional success. One huge cosmetics company, for example, recently revamped its salesperson hiring process to prioritize candidates with high emotional intelligence. What's the end result? People hired under the new system have sold $91,000 more on average than those hired through the previous system. In addition, the group chosen for their emotional intelligence has had much lower worker turnover.

So, what exactly is emotional intelligence, and how do you boost it?

What Is Emotional Intelligence, and What Does It Mean?

We all have different personalities, desires and requirements, and ways of expressing our feelings. It takes subtlety and dexterity to get through all of this - especially if we want to thrive in life. This is where emotional intelligence plays a crucial role.  Emotional intelligence is the capacity to detect and comprehend your emotions, as well as the impact your emotions have on those around you. It also affects your perspective of others: understanding how others feel assists you in better-managing relationships. Is This Article Helpful to You?

People who have a high level of emotional intelligence are usually successful in most endeavors. Why? Others want them on their squad since they're the best. Emails sent by someone with strong emotional intelligence are responded to. They receive assistance when they require it. They get through life far more easily than folks who are quickly irritated or upset because they make others happy.  Emotional Intelligence Characteristics Daniel Goleman, an American psychologist, proposed a framework of five factors that characterize emotional intelligence in his book "Emotional Intelligence - Why It Can Matter More Than IQ" 1995.

Self-Awareness 

People who have a high level of emotional intelligence are usually very aware of themselves. They are aware of their emotions and, as a result, do not allow them to control them. They're self-assured because they trust their instincts and don't allow their emotions to take over.

They're also willing to look at themselves in the mirror. They are aware of their talents and flaws and try to improve in these areas. Many individuals consider self-awareness to be the most crucial aspect of emotional intelligence.

Self-control 

The ability to control one's emotions and inclinations. People who self-regulate are less likely to become enraged or jealous, and they are less likely to make rash, reckless decisions. They consider their options before taking action. Consideration, comfort with change, honesty, and the ability to say no are all characteristics of self-regulation.

Motivation 

People who have a high level of emotional intelligence tend to be motivated. They're willing to put off instant gratification in order to achieve long-term success. They're extremely productive, enjoy a good challenge, and are really effective at what they do. Empathy — Perhaps the most significant aspect of emotional intelligence is empathy. Empathy is the ability to identify with and comprehend the desires, needs, and perspectives of another.

People that have empathy are skilled at recognizing other people's sentiments, even if they aren't visible. Empathetic persons are frequently good at managing relationships, listening, and relating to others as a result. They reject stereotypes and fast judgments, and they live their lives in an open and honest manner.

Social abilities – Another evidence of high emotional intelligence is that persons with good social skills are usually easy to talk to and like. Team players are usually those who have great social abilities. Rather than focusing on their own accomplishment, they assist others in growing and shining. They are skilled at resolving conflicts, communicating effectively, and creating and maintaining relationships.

Emotional intelligence can be a key to success in your life - especially in your work, as you've surely realized. Because all leaders must be able to manage people and relationships, developing and applying emotional intelligence can be an excellent method to demonstrate to others that you are a leader. What Can You Do to Boost Your Emotional Intelligence?  The good news is that emotional intelligence is something that can be taught and practiced. Use the following tactics in addition to focusing on your talents in the five categories listed above:

Examine your reactions to others. Do you make snap decisions before you have all of the facts? Do you believe in stereotypes? Take a hard look at how you think and interact with others. Put yourself in their shoes and be more sensitive to and understand their needs and viewpoints. Examine your working surroundings. Do you want to be recognized for your achievements?

Humility is good quality, and it does not imply shyness or a lack of self-assurance. When you practice humility, you acknowledge that you are aware of what you have done and that you can be quietly confident about it. Allow others to shine by focusing on them rather than worrying about receiving recognition for yourself.

Make a self-assessment. Take our emotional intelligence test to find out more. What are some of your flaws? Are you willing to admit that you're not perfect and that there are certain areas where you could improve to become a better person? Have the fortitude to take a hard look at yourself - it could save your life. Examine your coping mechanisms in challenging times. Do you become irritated every time there's a delay or something doesn't go as planned?

 Do you ever blame or become enraged at others, even if it isn't their fault? The ability to remain cool and in control in stressful situations is highly regarded both in and outside of the workplace. When things go awry, keep your emotions in check. Accept accountability for your actions. If you have damaged someone's sentiments, express your regret directly rather than ignoring the situation or avoiding the person. When you make a sincere effort to put things right, people are more likely to forgive and forget.

Consider the impact of your actions on others before you take them. Put yourself in their shoes if your decision will have an influence on others. What will their reaction be if you do this? Would you want to go through that? How can you assist people in dealing with the consequences if you must take action?  For particular advice on how to use emotional intelligence in a leadership role, see our article on Emotional Intelligence in Leadership.

Points to Remember

While "normal" intelligence is crucial for success in life, emotional intelligence is essential for relating well to others and attaining your objectives. Many individuals believe it is at least as significant as IQ, and many organizations now conduct emotional intelligence tests when hiring new employees.  Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and understand your own actions and feelings, as well as how they affect people around you. It also implies that you regard others, pay attention to their goals and needs, and can empathize or relate with them on a variety of levels.

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