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LEADERSHIP EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE TOOL KIT By Dr. Kellen Kiambati The Power Of Emotions E motions are powerful. They can override thoughts, transform relationships, and profoundly influence behavior. Emotional intelligence (EQ) allows us to harness that power to understand ourselves, overcome challenges, and build strong relationships. Best of all, emotional intelligence can be learned at any time. Research shows that Intellectual Intelligence (IQ) has less to do with success in life than Emotional Intelligence (EQ). Our IQ helps us understand and navigate the world on one level, but we also need EQ, or emotional smarts, in order to succeed. We all know people who are academically brilliant and yet are socially inept and unsuccessful. What they are missing is emotional intelligence. ‘‘Research shows that Intellectual Intelligence (IQ) has less to do with success in life than Emotional Intelligence (EQ). Our IQ helps us understand and navigate the world on one level, but we also need EQ, or emotional smarts, in order to succeed. We all know people who are academically brilliant and yet are socially inept and unsuccessful. What they are missing is emotional intelligence.’’ Emotional intelligence is directly linked to self-esteem, self- awareness, compassion, empathy, and adaptability - important predictors of success in life. Emotional intelligence is what helps you communicate clearly, lead others, and build powerful relationships at work and in your personal life. Emotional Intelligence also helps you motivate yourself, solve problems, bounce back from disappointment, and achieve your goals. Have you ever asked yourself why emotional intelligence matters? Have you ever felt like depression, anxiety, or anger was controlling you? Do you often act impulsively, doing or saying things you know you shouldn’t, only to regret it later? Do you feel disconnected from your feelings or emotionally numb? Do you have a hard time communicating with others and forming meaningful connections? Do you feel like your life is an emotional rollercoaster - all extremes and no balance? All of these challenges are related to a breakdown in emotional intelligence. We often hear from people who feel 82 MAL 17/17 ISSUE