How You Can Improve Emotional Intelligence (eq)

Emotional intelligence (eq) can be learned. Just like any other skill, it can be developed over time with practice. Though there's no doubt that some people are born with more natural emotional intelligence than others. But that doesn't mean that emotional intelligence can't be learned.

Think about it this way: just because you weren't born a musical genius doesn't mean you can't learn to play an instrument. Or just because you weren't born a world-class athlete doesn't mean you can't train your body to be faster, stronger, and more coordinated.

The same goes for emotional intelligence. Yes, some people may have a natural advantage. But that doesn't mean the rest of us are doomed to a life of emotional mediocrity.

So how can you learn emotional intelligence?

What is Emotional Intelligence?

We go into a greater level of detail when discussing emotional intelligence on this article. But in short, a leader who is emotionally intelligent has the ability to understand his/her own emotions, identify the emotions of others, harness emotions for the good of others while keeping their own emotions in check. They understand what drives people, how people react to different situations, and how they can positively influence others so that they feel motivated and ready to deliver exceptional performance. The most successful leaders have high emotional intelligence. Fortunately anyone can develop emotional intelligence -- a learned skill.

How you can improve emotional intelligence?

There are multiple techniques to improve emotional intelligence.  Additionally, emotional intelligence quotes can be a catalyst to your learning.

1. Start by enhancing self-awareness of your own emotions.

If you want to be emotionally intelligent, you need to start by becoming more aware of your own emotions. Self-awareness. Pay attention to how you're feeling in different situations. Notice when you're getting angry, anxious, or sad. There may be triggers that may drive an emotional response from you. Or you may feel a certain way when you are ready to become emotional.

For example, if someone accuses you of an action you didn't do. Do you typically get angry. What is the feeling you have as you're becoming angry. Can you identify that feeling? .... then control it ......

This self-awareness is a starting point for becoming more emotionally intelligent.

When your emotions drive behaviors are there typical emotions that you often feel? What are they?

2. Learn to regulate your emotions.

Emotionally intelligent people can manage their emotional state. Once you're more aware of your emotions, you can start to learn to regulate them. This means learning how to control your emotions, so they don't control you.

There are a few key things you can do to regulate your emotions:

• Identify your triggers. What situations or people tend to make you feel angry, anxious, or sad? Once you know your triggers, you can start to avoid them or find ways to deal with them in a healthy way. This helps you become more self-aware.

• Use relaxation techniques. When you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions, take a few minutes to relax. Try deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation.

• Talk to someone. Sometimes, it can help to talk to someone about what you're feeling. This can be a friend, family member, therapist, or anyone else who will listen and support you.

• Take criticism or critique well. Instead of reacting to this, listen and understand what they are saying.

3. Practice empathy.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It's a key component of emotional intelligence. Think about social awareness or emotional awareness.

If you want to be more empathetic, try to put yourself in another person's shoes. Try to imagine how they're feeling and what they might be going through.

4. Learn to communicate effectively.

One of the most important skills for emotional intelligence is effective communication. This means being able to express your feelings in a way that's respectful and clear.

It also means being a good listener. When someone is sharing their feelings with you, really listen. Try to understand where they're coming from.

If you one of your emotions are triggered, respond in your communication instead of reacting. This may be via body language or other methods.

Understand through active listening. Understand what someone is staying both verbally and non-verbally before you respond.

5. Be mindful of your interactions.

When you're interacting with others, be mindful of your words and actions. Remember that your words and actions can have a big impact on someone else's emotions. Empathize with those who you interact with.

If you're not sure how someone will react to something you say or do, just ask. And if you make a mistake, apologize.

6. Seek out opportunities to practice. Build stronger relationships.

One of the best ways to learn anything is to practice. And that's true for emotional intelligence as well.

Look for opportunities to put your skills to the test. Volunteer for a job that requires you to interact with people. Join a group or club. Building stronger relationships with people both at home and at work is helpful as well.

Focus on your ability to recognize emotions, how they affect those around you, and your ability to manage your own emotions.

7. Be patient with yourself.

Learning anything new takes time and effort. And emotional intelligence is no different.

So, be patient with yourself. If you make a mistake, learn from it and move on. And don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. It takes time to develop any skill, including emotional intelligence.

Emotional intelligence is a important skill that can benefit you in many areas of your life. And while it may not be easy, it is possible to learn. Just like anything else, it takes time, effort, and practice.

How do you recognize your own emotions and manage them to enhance your emotional intelligence?