This Week’s Word & Thought: Emotional Intelligence

I have spent the last couple of weeks reading various philosophers, artists, pundits, politicians, etc., to come up with words that would be useful given all that is going on around us.  First, I needed to recognize my own feelings of being helpless and inadequate.  Having the overwhelming urge to do something.  Anything.  Even if the action I wanted to do wasn’t positive or in line with my beliefs.  I know, wanting to smack the crap out some idiot espousing hate and bigotry would let you feel good for about 60 seconds.  But then, you are left with the horrible sensation of becoming one of them. 

I refuse.

In seeking answers for how to describe this “thing” and what to call it, I came across Emotional Intelligence.  This is a relatively recent concept as far as clearly defined.  However, you can find actionable references with classic philosophers such as Aristotle:

Anybody can become ANGRY

That is easy

But to be angry with

The RIGHT person

And to the right degree

And at the right time

And for the right purpose

And in the right way

That is not within

Everybody’s power

And is NOT EASY

So, then I started researching on the topic of Emotional Intelligence.  I found through intelligenthq.com the Five Components of Emotional Intelligence at Work. 

Self-Awareness:  ability to recognize and understand your moods, emotions and drives as well as their effect on others

Self-Regulation:  the ability to control and redirect disruptive impulses and moods

Motivation:  a passion to work for reasons that go beyond money or status

Empathy:  the ability to understand the emotional make up of other people

Social Skill:  proficiency in managing relationships and building networks

The best part of accidentally falling into this and reading about Emotional Intelligence was how this translates into relationships with family, friends, work, and in how you deal with the trials and tribulations of life.  Understanding your level of emotional intelligence and working to mature and improve these specific skills could alter the very enjoyment of life.

I guess the cliché “Moral of the Story” is that it is ok to have an emotional response to those events happening around us.  Even if that reaction is one of fear and anger.  But be sure it is measured, directed correctly, manifested in a positive and change inducing way, and let go of it when the work is done.

Love with the same maturity.  Be sad, or anxious, or reflective, etc.  But begin to try and analyze your emotions with a more intelligent perspective.  It will help you know YOU better.  The more can understand, accept, and love yourself, the more Emotional Intelligence you will possess.  This alone will allow great change around you.

I wish for you patience, insight, and calm in your journey of self-recognition and growth.

Namaste,

Tom