Some people just seem to be lucky and successful, no matter what they do, right? Well, surprisingly, this turns out to be true, but not because they were born lucky or anything like that, but because they may have developed something called high emotional intelligence.
As human beings, we are subject to our feelings and emotions on a daily basis. It is because of those very same feelings and emotions, and more precisely, the inability to properly control them, that some people lack the necessary emotional self-awareness to handle distressing situations. It is for that same reason why some people have issues with empathy, long-term relationships, commitments, and pretty much anything else that involves responsibility.
Knowing how to understand and manage strong feelings is what this high emotional intelligence is all about. It is what makes some people seem as if they’re gliding through life while others remain stuck in the same predicament for years on end.
According to Psychology Today, people who’ve developed emotional intelligence (EI) have three applicable skills that they use in their daily lives:
- Emotional awareness – which is the ability to properly recognize their own emotions as well as those of others.
- The ability to harness those emotions, good or bad, and use them to their advantage in taking decisions and for problem-solving.
- And the ability to regulate and control those emotions to cheer themselves up and to help others do the same.
Here are some traits that define people who are now masters of their feelings.
They Don’t Dwell on the Past
If we find ourselves regularly dwelling on things like what could have been, whose fault it was, or the good old days, we are dwelling in the past. People with a high EI have these thoughts too, but they analyze them then and there and move on, not holding grudges or letting themselves get consumed by negativism and worry.
They Have Empathy
Having empathy allows people to understand others better by being able to feel what they are is going through. Empathy allows people with EI to manage and comfort others, both at work and at home.
They Accept Change
Change is a normal part of life, yet many of us are resistant to it. People with a high EI are not only accepting of change, but they embrace it. Change almost always brings with it new opportunities. It is up to every one of use to see them.
They’re Not Perfectionists
Perfection, by its very nature, is impossible. Accepting this as a fact will help a great deal. Emotionally-intelligent people aren’t sloppy in their work; they just know when things are ‘good enough.’
They’re Self-Aware
EI people are more honest with themselves about themselves. This allows them to know their strengths and weaknesses better, which gives them the self-confidence necessary to succeed in life.
They’re Curious
Curiosity implies impartiality. People with a high EI do not judge others and do not assume things based on hearsay. They ask questions, are open to suggestions, and explore new possibilities. This curiosity is also what makes these people, so fun to be around.
They’re Balanced
Emotionally-intelligent people can balance all aspects of their life. They eat healthily, they exercise, they have hobbies and other interests outside of work, and they know when to say no to others. The reason for this last one is that it prevents them from becoming overwhelmed.
Conclusion
In short, developing high emotional intelligence, no matter at what stage in life, is imperative for leading a happy and successful life.
