Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence Pocketbook, Little Exercises for an Intuitive Life, by Gill Hasson, Capstone 2017

Ever been accused of having low EQ - emotional intelligence? like below a rock?  Well, if so, or if you just want a shortcut to superb emotional intelligence performance (are you listening Dr. X?), then the  Emotional Intelligence Pocketbook, Little Exercises for an Intuitive Life, by Gill Hasson, is for you. It only takes milliseconds to read each brief exercise, like the corrective tap tap on your shoulder by your third grade teacher - short but powerful.  Briefs like "Managing Someone Else's Anger"  cover moments so important, they are opportunities to make a big difference, although we may find ourselves wanting to run from them! Keep this little pocketbook on your desk well-hidden for lunch and break time reminders (cover the jacket with a plan brown wrapper - people will think you are reading a diary or a statistics primer...).  

Here's a favorite emotional intelligence exercise:

Understanding and Managing Group Dynamics:  

Practice people watching

Be aware of non-verbal communication

Be aware of "matching and mirroring'.  People who are in tune with each other 'mirror' each other; they tend to use the same posture and body language.  These are natural signs of a shared liking, harmony and understanding .  Look for how other people do or don't mirror reach other.

Reod people of what you have in common.

Fcus on communication.

Or try this one:

Shutting Someone Up.  Nicely.

In Practice

Rather than switch off, listen closely.

Be ready to jump in.

Add some experience of your own that will confirm that you've listened to what they've told you.

Widen the circle.  If you're in a group, try directing questions to someone else.  Say "What do you think of this, Tim?'...  This tactic makes them feel included and gives you the chance to take your leave.

Be nice  You'll feel ok about ending the conversation and the other person will feel happier to let you go if you say something positive.  "Thamks, you've given me some good advice about travelling by train in Italy!"  

***