Emotional intelligence and developing holistically are two concepts that are often used in conjunction with one another.
Although there is some debate about how these terms are defined, they both share a common goal: experiencing the world in a more meaningful and fulfilling way.
The concept of emotional intelligence was first introduced by two researchers, Peter Salovey and John Mayer, in an article titled “Emotional Intelligence” in 1990.
In this article, they defined emotional intelligence as the “capacity to reason about emotions and emotional information, and of emotions to enhance thought.” In other words, it is a subset of general intellect that focuses on cognition with regard to emotion-inducing stimuli.
In order for an individual to be truly successful in life, some form of emotional intelligence is needed.
This is due to the fact that life, and therefore success, does not occur in a vacuum. It takes the ability to read the emotions of other individuals, understand them, and then act upon these emotions.
An individual who possesses this skill set will be more likely to form successful interpersonal relationships than one who does not.
The Five Elements of Emotional Intelligence and how to develop each one
- Emotional awareness
This element deals with a person’s ability to recognize and understand his or her emotions, as well as the emotions of other people.
For those who lack strong emotional awareness, this will be difficult because being aware of one’s own feelings is not sufficient for understanding how these feelings affect those around you.
In order to become more emotionally aware, it is important to take time every day to examine your thoughts and feelings in addition to those of others close to you.
- Managing emotions
As the name suggests, this element deals with a person’s ability to control their own emotions as well as those of other people.
While managing emotions comes relatively naturally for some individuals, others greatly with keeping their moods and feelings in check. In order to improve this skill, it is important to monitor your emotions on a regular basis and practice calming measures that work for you.
This may include going out into nature, reading a book or magazine, or taking a hot bath.
- Motivating oneself
While largely similar to managing emotions, motivating oneself deals specifically with the ability to motivate oneself internally rather than through external means such as pep talks from friends and family members.
Individuals who possess emotional intelligence will be able to muster up motivation when they need it most – whether it be during an exam at school or just trying to get through the day after getting laid off of work.
When all else fails, remember that failure breeds success and that every no brings you one step closer to a yes.
- Empathetic Attitude
This element of emotional intelligence focuses on the ability to see things from another person’s point of view.
Being able to understand and empathize with others appears to be one of the most important qualities of emotional intelligence because it is what allows people to work in harmony towards a common goal.
Without empathy, interpersonal relationships would fall apart, and society as we know it would cease to exist.
- Social Skills
Emotional intelligence is not limited to relationships with others.
Individuals who possess this skill will be able to form strong, satisfying relationships with their surroundings – whether that means animals, plants, the sea, or even inanimate objects like cars or books.
It is important to note that just because one has high emotional intelligence does not mean he or she is always “happy” all of the time. Emotions are fluid and should be seen as such rather than something to strive for.
Learning how to recognize your emotions and identifying what triggers specific feelings can go a long way towards controlling them instead of vice versa. The more knowledge you have about yourself, the easier it should be for you to manage your emotions accordingly.
The benefits of having a high emotional intelligence quotient
There are multiple benefits of having a high emotional intelligence quotient (EQ) are numerous including everything from better interpersonal relationships to simply feeling happier.
Individuals who score higher on EQ tests tend to be more satisfied with their lives, make friends much more easily and lead happier, healthier lives overall.
Although it is important for individuals to understand that certain circumstances cannot always be controlled.
How to improve your emotional intelligence skills
One of the best ways to improve emotional intelligence is through constant practice.
Being able to recognize your feelings in any given situation and then switching to an action mode where you are able to set aside whatever emotions you may be feeling in order to do what needs doing is one of the most important skills you can learn.
Another way that people have found success in improving emotional intelligence is through meditation. Meditation allows people to truly listen to themselves without judgment, thereby helping them better understand what emotions are being felt and why.
There are also numerous exercises that have been designed specifically for cultivating higher EQ skills. One such exercise involves keeping a daily journal where you write down how you feel three times throughout the day
Examples of emotionally intelligent people and organizations
One example of an emotionally intelligent person is a woman by the name of Lesley Arnold.
Ms. Arnold has been described as having a personality so strong she almost seems to have a gravitational pull on those around her. She has been able to use this powerful personality in order to motivate others and form successful relationships with both friends and colleagues alike.
Other examples of emotionally intelligent people or organizations would-be parents who are able to monitor their children’s experiences and guide them towards developing proper emotional management tools without removing their free will.
There is no doubt that these individuals possess strong EQ skills, and they know how to make full use of them in order to improve the world around them.
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