Emotional Intelligence is the new currency of success

The concept of emotional intelligence (EQ) is sweeping the business sector. More and more leaders are beginning to recognise its potential to improve the performance of their own teams after hearing stories of its impact.
EQ refers to our ability to identify, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. This skill has become increasingly important in the workplace, as companies recognise the importance of creating a positive and productive work environment. In this article, we will explore emotional capital and how to develop it.
According to world-renowned expert, Dr Martyn Newman, Founder and Chairman of RocheMartin and author of the book “Emotional Capitalists: The Ultimate Guide to Developing Emotional Intelligence for Leaders”, emotional intelligence is “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.”
Emotional Intelligence is the new currency of success
One of the key aspects of emotional capital is empathy. Being able to understand and relate to others’ emotions is crucial in building strong relationships, both in the workplace and in our personal lives. As Simon Sinek puts it, “Empathy is the ability to recognise and share the feelings of others. It is the glue that binds people together, and it is essential for any successful relationship.”
Another important aspect of emotional capital is self-awareness. This involves recognising your own emotions and how they impact your thoughts and actions. As author Brené Brown states, “We cannot selectively numb emotions, when we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.” Self-awareness allows us to better understand ourselves and others, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
So, how can we develop emotional capital? One way is through mindfulness practices. Mindfulness involves being present in the moment and fully aware of your thoughts and feelings. By practising mindfulness, you can become more attuned to your emotions and learn to manage them effectively.
Another way to develop emotional capital is through active listening. This involves fully listening to others and trying to understand their perspective without judgment. As author Stephen Covey puts it, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” You can improve your empathy and build stronger relationships by practising active listening.
In conclusion, emotional capital, or emotional intelligence, is a crucial skill for success in both our personal and professional lives. Developing empathy and self-awareness, as well as practising mindfulness and active listening, are just a few ways we can improve our emotional capital. As author and entrepreneur Jim Rohn once said, “Emotional intelligence is a way of recognising, understanding, and choosing how we think, feel, and act. It shapes our interactions with others and our understanding of ourselves. It defines how and what we learn; it allows us to set priorities; it determines the majority of our daily actions.”
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