#Emotional intelligence, also known as emotional quotient (EQ), refers to a person’s ability to recognize, understand, manage, and express their own emotions, as well as to recognize, understand and influence the emotions of others. #Emotional intelligence encompasses several skills essential for social interactions and emotional well-being. In fact, emotional intelligence can be developed and improved through learning and practice. It is considered a key factor in personal and professional success because it influences the way we behave, handle stressful situations, make decisions, and interact with others. It’s important to understand that emotional intelligence does not replace cognitive intelligence (intelligence quotient or IQ), but rather complements #cognitive skills by providing an in-depth understanding of emotions and social interactions.
From the biological point of view, the main rôle of an emotion consists in favoring the realization of an action. Since our brain is modeled in three parts, which appeared successively in the evolutionary process, that is:
- The reptilian brain which automatically regulates vital functions.
- The amygdala which associates emotions and physiological reactions in order to choose the right action according to sensory inputs.
- And the neocortex which manages reasoning, logic, physical reality according to our interpretation of the sensory.
When we are overwhelmed by an intense #emotion, the amygdala generates very fast and intense brain signals, which inhibit the functioning of the neocortex. This is why we react instinctively and are unable to think at that moment. Scientists tell us that we have two brains and two types of intelligence, one rational and the other emotional.
For example, when we are angry, more blood goes to our hands so we can fight harder; while when we feel fear, the blood will concentrate in the large muscles of our legs in order to facilitate our escape, because both emotions are triggered by our survival mechanism in the face of a perceived danger. But, on the other hand, when you feel happy, the brain will increase its activity and inhibit negative thoughts. This is why our ability to make the right decisions, to choose the right actions in a given situation, depends on our ability to use these two intelligences well. And our ability to recognize emotions, and to understand that it is possible (and sometimes advantageous) to inhibit instinctive reactions. It is a skill that we develop particularly during childhood, but which can continue throughout our lives. his life.
Here are the key components of emotional intelligence which includes:
- Self-awareness: to say or recognize one’s emotions, To have the certainty of the emotions that we feel and be able to make better decisions. This involves being aware of one’s own emotions, recognizing emotional triggers and identifying the feelings that arise. Indeed, self-awareness allows you to better understand your own emotional strengths and weaknesses.
- Self-control comes down to managing your emotions. To be able to get rid of anxiety and worries. This involves knowing how to manage stress, showing resilience in the face of difficulties, and regulating emotional reactions appropriately. Mastering this skill allows us to recover quickly after a failure.
- Motivation: being able to channel your emotions is essential to pursue any ambitious goals; it facilitates attention, self-control, and creativity. It’s about being able to motivate yourself and persevere in achieving your goals, despite obstacles or setbacks. Emotional motivation can help maintain a positive attitude and persevere in the face of challenges.
- Empathy is the ability to recognize, understand and feel the emotions of others. Knowing how to read social cues allows us to identify the needs and wants of others. Empathy allows us to build strong connections with others, foster effective communication, and act in an understanding and compassionate way.
- Social skills involve being able to manage interpersonal relationships, communicate effectively, resolve conflicts constructively and work in a team. It is the art of mastering one’s relationships through the ability to manage others’ emotions. Social skills are essential for establishing harmonious relationships and for positively influencing others.
According to Professor Richard Davidson of Harvard university (1976), six elements characterize our relationship to emotions. They are classified into emotional profiles which are:
#Resilience – #Perspective – #Social intuition – #Self-awareness – #Contextual awareness – #Attention
Finally, it is important to develop your emotional skills in order to better flourish in your own life with the world around us.
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Have a great day!
To your success,
Cecile