What is Emotional Intelligence
Emotional Intelligence, often abbreviated as EQ or EI It's the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict. It’s not about being "nice" all the time, but rather about being smart with your feelings. The Four Components of Emotional Intelligence 1. Self-Awareness 2. Self-Management (or Self-Regulation) 3. Social Awareness (Empathy) 4. Relationship Management ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Self-awareness the ability to recognize and understand your own emotions as they happen you know what you are feeling and why you understand the link between your feelings and your actions You have a good sense of your own strengths and weaknesses. Example While I'm studying, my roommate keeps slamming doors. I notice the thought, 'I'm feeling really distracted and annoyed right now.' By recognizing that feeling, I can choose a constructive response—like putting on headphones or politely asking for quiet—instead of just yelling at them. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Self-Management (or Self-Regulation) This is the ability to control your impulsive feelings and behaviors and adapt to changing circumstances. It's about thinking before acting. You don't let temporary emotions rule you You think before you act. You're comfortable with ambiguity and change. You take responsibility for your actions. Example: You're in a meeting and someone cuts you off. Instead of getting angry, you smile and say, "Just one more second." You've stayed calm and in control. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Social Awareness (Empathy) It's about picking up on emotional cues and feeling comfortable in someone else's shoes.