Understanding Emotional Intelligence in a Fast-Paced World

Communication has changed dramatically, from the hand-written letter that took weeks to deliver to the instant text message across the globe in seconds. This change parallels the speeding up of information flow within organizations.

But while technology can bridge distances, it often magnifies emotional disconnections. For example, the cold tone of an email or a brusque instant message can cause misunderstandings, requiring more emotional intelligence.

Heather reminisces about her early career when generating a report required an hour, a stark contrast to today’s instantaneous results. Similarly, she notes how the omnipresence of cell phones has redefined connectivity. Despite these conveniences, the essence of human interaction in understanding emotions remains as complex as ever.

Emotions are far from simple. Using the movie Inside Out from Pixar, Heather works through five primary emotions Joy, Anger, Sadness, Fear, and Disgust. Each of these plays a significant role in shaping our responses. For instance, the connection is fostered by Joy and withdrawal by Fear. It also shows the interaction between Joy and Sadness. It reveals that sometimes the sad moments create more significant joy.

Robert Plutchik’s Wheel of Emotions expands on this, showcasing primary emotions like Trust and Anticipation and their nuanced derivatives. Understanding these variations, such as how annoyance can escalate to anger or even rage, equips individuals to manage their emotional responses proactively.

Self-awareness is a significant component of emotional intelligence. It is the ability to recognize and name one's emotions. Heather is honest about her issues with receiving feedback, as she frequently misinterprets a simple "Let's talk" message as an omen of doom. She discovered through introspection that separating feelings from facts was important.

To control their emotions, Heather brings in the acronym HALT known as Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. Meeting these fundamental needs may help avoid an emotional overreaction and bring in a more thoughtful, attuned state of mind. For example, drinking enough water, sleeping enough, or merely stepping back for a brief period can reduce an overly emotional response.

Empathy is more than sympathy because it builds real connections. Heather shares her story about her mother's dementia, and the power of sitting with someone in their pain is transformative. Empathy does not fix problems but rather being present, acknowledging others' feelings, and offering solace.

Empathy breeds connection, according to researcher Brené Brown. "I have no idea what to say, but I'm glad you shared this with me." Healing can be highly achieved by avoiding the dismissing statements of "At least …." Genuine care is exhibited here.

The Four Agreements

According to Heather, Don Miguel Ruiz's The Four Agreements is a practical source that can be used in real life for self-regulation:

• Be impeccable with your words.
• Don't take things personally.
• Don't make assumptions.
• Always do your best.

These values foster thoughtful communication, decreased emotional reactivity, and a commitment to personal growth.

Feedback

Feedback, often riddled with emotional undertones, can be improved by using a mindful approach. Rather than reacting defensively, one can pause, reflect, and respond constructively.

As organizations adopt AI, the intersection of technology and humanity becomes more crucial. Although AI tools do everything with efficiency, it does not have the sensitivity of human empathy and emotional connection. Heather believes that organizations need to maintain the human element while transforming the roles of the employees to make them feel valuable.

Empathy, flexibility, and creativity are necessary skills in managing these changes. Leaders with emotional intelligence will be better positioned to work through the fears and doubts that come with change by creating a culture of resilience and mutual respect.

GSDC's Certified Emotional Intelligence (EI) Certification gives the individual skills to understand, manage, and use emotions effectively in personal and professional environments.

Rooted in the principles of self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal communication, this globally recognized certification empowers you to build meaningful connections, foster team collaboration, and enhance decision-making.

If you are a leader, HR, or an aspiring manager, by mastering EI with GSDC, you will find ways to create an amicable working environment. Use your career path and become one of the drivers in the organization through emotional intelligence. Take the first step toward mastery of emotions by choosing GSDC.