Eight Signs of High Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and How You Respond

In 1995, Daniel Goleman, published a book introducing the concept of emotional intelligence.  The idea--that an ability to understand and manage emotions greatly increases our chances of success and happiness--quickly took off, and it went on to greatly influence the way people think about human behavior.  But what does emotional intelligence look like in everyday life?  Here are some examples to help you:

Thinking Icon.png   You think about Feelings

Emotional intelligence begins with what is called self- and social- awareness, the ability to recognize emotions (and their impact) in yourself and others. Recognize and reflect on your own emotions and those of others to gain valuable insights. How has acknowledging emotions improved your interactions with others? 

Pause Button Icon.png   You Pause

To prevent impulsive decisions, take a moment to think before speaking or acting. Consider when and how pausing before responding has positively impacted your communication. 

Note icon.png   You view criticism as beneficial 

Perceive negative feedback as an opportunity to learn and understand others' perspectives. How have you handled criticism, and what have you learned from it? 

Hug Icon.png   You demonstrate empathy

Empathy doesn't necessarily mean agreeing with another person's point of view; it means understanding and sharing the feelings of others to build deeper connections. Think of the times when showing empathy strengthened a relationship. 

Thumbs Up Icon (1).png You praise others

Offer sincere compliments to acknowledge and appreciate others. When you give a well-deserved compliment, you satisfy that craving and build trust in the process. Reflect on how often you recognize and praise the efforts of those around you. 

Apology Icon.png   you Apologize

Show humility and strength by admitting mistakes and offering sincere apologies. Emotional intelligence helps you realize that apologizing doesn't always mean you're wrong in the informational sense. It does mean valuing your relationship more than your ego. Reflect on a situation where apologizing improved your relationship with someone. 

Time Icon.png   You keep your commitments

Honor your promises to build trust and demonstrate reliability. How have you experienced the impact of keeping or breaking a commitment? 

Heart Icon.png   You help others

One of the greatest ways to positively impact the emotions of others is to help them. Offer assistance and support to positively influence others and build trust. In what ways have you extended help, and how did it affect your relationship? 

Adapted by CISTAR from: INC https://www.inc.com/justin-bariso/13-things-emotionally-intelligent-people-do.html