People who excel in life are said to be emotionally intelligent. This means you have greater self-control, compassion and awareness for other people’s feelings in relation to your own.
There are several parameters to determine your EI Quotient. The following are the guidelines to examine:
1. You have a strong self-awareness: In other words, you are tuned into your own feelings, are able to express them and understand how they impact others. You can also identify emotions from moment to moment, adding to your insight and character.
2. You are empathetic: This means you can sense what others are feeling and relate to it. You are able to watch body language and “know” when someone says something, but means something else. You are attuned to their social signals and actions and can see their perspective, resulting in greater acceptance and tolerance.
3. You can control your emotions by being able to soothe yourself when you are angry, or inspire yourself when you are sad. You also have the skills to help others with their emotions, whether it’s to comfort or sympathize.
4. You have a greater understanding of what the emotions mean. For instance, if you should feel anxious, you understand that it means apprehension. If you are frustrated, you are aware it means dissatisfaction.
5. You are able to use your emotions to enhance creative problem solving and support healthy decisions.
Why is all this important? Emotional Intelligence affects your intimate, as well as your professional relationships. It’s important to have the ability to nurture your associations, to maintain positive friendships and to solve conflicts with finesse and ease, rather than through constant distress. It is wonderful to learn the art of cooperation and negotiation as a skill to bring harmony and understanding to your world. Probably, the most influential people in your life are the ones who are not only bright, but also emotionally intelligent. These are the people who are able to handle the trials and tribulations of life with control and dignity and who make you feel good when you are around them.
You can excel in your life, by recognizing how significant emotions are in relation to yourself and others. With some extra effort you can become a social success beyond your wildest dreams
Amy Sherman is a licensed mental health counselor in private practice. She is the author of "Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life." Amy specializes in dealing with the 40+ population and their specific concerns. Go to wwww.bummedoutboomer.com for more information and to sign up for her free weekly ezine. Contact Amy at amy@bummedoutboomer.com or by phone 561-281-2975.