Emotional intelligence or EQ (emotional quotient) is the ability to recognize and effectively manage your emotions and be acutely aware of the emotions of others. This skill is particularly essential to personal and professional success.
Emotional intelligence determines the quality of personal and career relationships through the way we handle stress, communicate and perceive others.
While some are naturally gifted with emotional intelligence, most people must consciously learn and acquire EQ skills overtime. Here are five ways to be more emotionally intelligent.
Become Self-Aware
Self-awareness is the habit of paying attention to the way you think, feel, and behave. Emotionally intelligent people are self-aware and intuitive. Being aware of your own emotions can greatly help with how you get along with others. The ability to pick up on other people’s emotions and body language can significantly enhance personal and professional communication.
Practice Active Listening Skills
In conversations, emotionally intelligent people listen for clarity instead of just waiting for their turn to speak. They make sure they understand what is being said before responding. Emotionally intelligent people also pay attention to the non-verbal cues of a conversation. This prevents misunderstandings, allows the listener to respond properly and shows respect for the person they are speaking with.
Practice Empathy
Develop Leadership Skills
Emotionally intelligent people have excellent leadership skills. They have high standards for themselves and set an example for others to follow. They take initiative and have great decision making and problem-solving skills. This allows for a higher and more productive level of performance in life and at work.
Read Also: 7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills
Manage Conflict
During instances of conflict, emotional outbursts and feelings of anger are common. Stay calm during stressful situations and think through various options before reacting to a conflicting situation. In times of conflict, the goal should be resolution and not exacerbation.
Becoming more emotionally intelligent can bring new levels of success both personally and professionally. The list above is not exhaustive but with these starting steps in practice, there will be notable improvement when relating with others.
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