Our society has long emphasized intelligence, as determined by the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) test, in order to achieve success and fulfillment. The complexity of human experience and the varied character of achievement, however, make it more obvious that intelligence alone is not a reliable indicator or determinant of one’s success in life.
In this article, will be discovering what is Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and why cognitive intelligence is not the only success determinant.
What Is Emotional Intelligence?
Emotional intelligence, often referred to as EQ, is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions. Someone with a high EQ will be able to use their emotions to work for them, rather than against them.
Why Does It Matter?
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Understanding our own emotions makes it simpler for us to appreciate others while enhancing our communication. This strengthens both our personal and professional ties. Most of us were taught to stifle our powerful emotions as children, such as anger, grief, or fear, and we frequently have a tendency to conceal them. But whether we recognize them or not, they persist. Positive emotions tend to be more pleasant for us to feel and it is also simpler to smile and enjoy life.
How Do You Build Emotional Intelligence?
If you are someone who can’t handle emotions well, it is okay! Because you can still develop your emotional intelligence. Baby steps always make wonder. Here are a few tips that you can follow to build your emotional intelligence!
1. Do A Self-Reflection
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Before going to bed, try journaling or even think back about your day. Reflect on your feelings and behavior towards yourself and others. Ask questions like how you react to certain emotions, how did you feel about it or how it affected others and what were their responses. By doing this, you can be aware of your emotions next time and can handle it better!
2. Be Aware Of Your Negativity
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Developing EQ doesn’t mean you need to look at the positive stuff alone. You have to acknowledge and embrace the negative emotions. This will make you deal the negative emotions better. You can even read a self-improvement book to deal with negativity better!
3. Own Your Feelings
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Keep in mind that your feelings belong to you only! You have to be accountable for your own actions and be more responsible towards what you feel. You will tend to see things positively.
Remember that having a high EQ isn’t a competition. Developing emotional intelligence is a process and the process itself is ongoing! There is no finishing line for you and its okay if you feel like you are making a slower process. What’s important is there is a process and you are making an effort to make a change!
