When it comes to developing ourselves, we tend to focus on practical tasks (IQ) that will move us ahead. Attend that meeting. Do that project. Learn that system.
But did you know that there is something that matters more than those practical tasks and that it could move you further ahead?
It’s called emotional intelligence (EQ)
People with high emotional intelligence are usually successful. They build great relationships, they balance their feelings, they make good decisions and they are constantly looking for ways to do things better. How? By managing their emotions.
How do you develop it?
Emotional intelligence (or EQ) is the ability to recognise and manage your emotions, and those of other people. We all have it, but it doesn’t always come naturally. The good news is that it’s something we can all cultivate.
Get to know yourself
People with high EQ are self-aware and realistic about their strengths and weaknesses. They recognise how their emotions affect their behaviour, their decisions and how they come across to others.
How? Take a self-assessment here to uncover your blind spots. We all have them! Or why not be brave and ask others for feedback? It can be hard for you to assess your own levels. Use this questionnaire to help you.
Learn your triggers
When you’re self-aware, you can predict how you’re going to respond in certain situations. Think about the last time you felt under pressure. Did your feelings help or hinder you? What about the last time you left a meeting feeling really inspired? Recognising how you feel, and why you feel that way, can help you think clearly and make better decisions.
Have empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand a person’s feelings and perspectives. It’s about striving to understand and listening without jumping to conclusions. This allows you to anticipate how your actions may impact other people.
How? Read these 5 tips for developing empathy here.
Own your emotions
Part of being emotionally intelligent is about taking responsibility for the way you interact with others. If someone upsets you, pause and reflect on why their actions led you to feel this way. Recognise that a conversation is a two-way interaction, and it takes two people to make you feel a certain way.
How? Begin to recognise when you react to certain situations. Take this self-reflection exercise to help you reflect on a challenging situation.
Don’t suppress your emotions
Listen to your body. Have you ever made a decision which has left you buzzing? What about a time where your stomach dropped? Our emotions are a valuable source of information. Emotional intelligence isn’t about suppressing your emotions. It’s about learning how to recognise, process and channel them in a way that benefits you.
What’s next for you?
As Jo mentioned in her February blog, self-mastery leads to higher levels of overall happiness, job satisfaction and better relationships. Emotional intelligence plays a key part in this. That’s why it’s part of our ‘where should you develop?’ quiz, designed to help you spot your strengths and development areas.
The question is – are you going to add emotional intelligence onto your development plan?