Emotional Intelligence (EQ) seems to be a subject that periodically trends. Over the last year I have understood EQ and the impact it can have in professional environments, in a new way. This has come
about through delivering corporate training sessions on the subject. It has caused me to reflect on my own professional practice, in addition my interpersonal interactions, as I have asked myself how emotionally intelligent am I? What does that look like and how can that be measured?
There are varying models that depict what constitutes emotional intelligence, but the most commonly agreed aspects include the following five; self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, social skills and motivation. Whether the model you are familiar with has four, five or seven components, when we consider emotional intelligence it is one’s ability to reflect, understand and manage their own emotions in a healthy and positive way. The ability to do this is reflected in how one manages challenges, stress, difficult people, and also conflict.
As a speaker, and also as a trainer, I must confess one of my favourite aspects of delivering is when I notice an attendee or audience member get a lightbulb moment, almost like an epiphany. Some may call it an ‘aha’ moment, but an obvious realisation and personal reflection when something they are hearing resonates deeply. I have noticed that when delivering emotional intelligence training to professionals in every sector the number of these lightbulb moments are many, and there is a depth of impact for certain individuals.
Our starting points are unique when it comes to emotional intelligence, and whether we have had opportunity and experience to harness the skill of emotional regulation, it is never too late. Working alongside other people is a sure guarantee that there will on some level be conflict and challenges, as such there is opportunity to improve on how we understand, derive meaning and respond to such situations. When, however, there is a willingness to be reflective and take ownership of our own state, realising that at times, we may need to adapt and be the ones to change. As we head into a new month I wonder if we began to notice more of our own emotions, regulate and manage them differently how might our lives be impacted?
I titled this blog, how emotionally intelligent are you? It is a question I asked of myself too and my conclusion has been I have a level of emotionally intelligence. This however can and should develop as I
grow in understanding across the differing aspects of EQ, self-reflect on what I see working well, and what areas may need addressing, fully embracing the learnings and mistakes on route. In addition to having reflective conversations and taking on board feedback from trusted individuals. As we individually and collectively mature in emotional intelligence the positive impact will be seen, felt and experienced by those we get to do life alongside, both in work and outside of work.
If you or your team are interested in learning more about emotional intelligence drop me a message and let’s plan a conversation.
Francesca McDowall, May 2024