How to Coach Yourself and Others Essential Knowledge For Coaching | Page 428

4.32 Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a different type of intelligence. It’s about
being “heart smart,” not just “book smart.” The evidence shows that
emotional intelligence matters just as much as intellectual ability, if not
more so, when it comes to happiness and success in life. Emotional
intelligence helps you build strong relationships, succeed at work, and
achieve your goals.
The skills of emotional intelligence can be developed throughout life. You
can boost your own “EQ” by learning how to rapidly reduce stress,
connect to your emotions, communicate nonverbally, use humor and
play to deal with challenges, and defuse conflicts with confidence and
self-assurance.
What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify, use, understand, and
manage your emotions in positive and constructive ways. It's about
recognizing your own emotional state and the emotional states of others.
Emotional intelligence is also about engaging with others in ways that
draw people to you.
Emotional intelligence consists of four core abilities:
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Self-awareness – The ability to recognize your own emotions
and how they affect your thoughts and behavior, know your
strengths and weaknesses, and have self-confidence.
Self-management – The ability to control impulsive feelings and
behaviors, manage your emotions in healthy ways, take
initiative, follow through on commitments, and adapt to
changing circumstances.
Social awareness – The ability to understand the emotions,
needs, and concerns of other people, pick up on emotional cues,
feel comfortable socially, and recognize the power dynamics in a
group or organization.
Relationship management – The ability to develop and maintain
good relationships, communicate clearly, inspire and influence
others, work well in a team, and manage conflict.