Emotional Intelligence

In times of crisis, a person with emotional intelligence (EQ) is prepared to respond to pressure in calm, considered ways. They understand the emotions involved in a situation – both the emotions of themselves and others.

And in the world of work, emotional intelligence can often give you the upper hand. It could mean strong relationships with your colleagues, a knack for working efficiently in a team, and that you have the emotional ability to thrive in difficult situations. Psychologist and author Daniel Goleman writes about emotional intelligence as containing four quadrants.

Self Awareness

1. Be in tune with your emotions, needs, weaknesses, strengths and drives.

2. Ask yourself: What are your top 5 core values? Why do they matter? Write this down.

3. Do this: Try to become more aware of your emotions and thoughts with every situation going forward.

Social awareness

1. Be more aware of other people and their emotions, but do not let it influence you.

2. Ask yourself: What was the eye colour of the last person I spoke to? What was their body language? What were they thinking?

3. Do this: Keep your empathy skills sharp by asking yourself questions about those around you. Most people show what they are thinking and feeling – you just have to listen and respond.

Self-management

1. Control your impulses, especially ones that can be destructive such as anger and fear.

2. Ask yourself: What decision can you make that will be in line with your core values?

3. Do this: Cultivate goals, mindsets and habits that are in line with your values. Accept that decisions that are in line with your values will not always be easy – they may come with discomfort, anxiety and fear.

Relationship management

1. Your capacity to use social awareness to manage interactions successfully.

2. Ask yourself: What are your positive and negative communication abilities?

Do this: Write down areas of your communication abilities that need improvement (for example conflict management) and work to improve it – take a short course, watch videos, read a book, or find a role model

By teaching people to tune in to their emotions with intelligence and to expand their circles of caring, we can transform organizations from the inside out and make a positive difference in our world — Daniel Goleman