July 16, 2023
Written/Edited by: Fidha, Shaleishka, and Mana
Origins of EI
Coined first in 1990 by John Mayer and Peter Salovey, emotional intelligence refers to one's ability to understand and manage your emotions and recognize the emotions of those around you. According to primary models, there are four components of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. It is important to understand that these components are not independent of one another, and with practice, emotional intelligence can become a very easy, instinctive practice.
Development of EI
Emotional intelligence (EI) could come easy to many people but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t developed in some form. Don’t be discouraged, it is never too late to become emotionally intelligent but it starts with listening, observing, understanding, and reflecting. Being able to do these things requires a lot of practice; don’t rush the process. Connecting with others emotionally is beneficial for your EI and growing relationships. Being able to recognize yours and others emotions is a crucial part and how you react is even more significant. Reading is a great way to start being empathetic and realize for every emotion and reaction that a person exhibits, there is a greater reason behind it. Not having the full background on why a person handles situations makes it a lot harder to understand where they’re coming from, having EI is being kind enough to try to understand the behaviors of others. EI is also more than understanding others. As human beings, we naturally have many emotions that sometimes we can’t control, sometimes we must reflect in ourselves to understand where the problem is coming from. Take the initiative to mentally take care of yourselves, even if it means asking others for help.
Signs of Developed EI
The signs of emotional intelligence may vary between individuals, but they generally present themselves as follows:
Regarding others, possessing the ability to recognize the emotions they’re presenting, as well as considerable curiosity about them and the willingness to be sensitive with others (sensitive meaning expressing empathy, compassion, concern, etcetera.)
Regarding themselves, possessing an acute awareness of their personal strengths and weaknesses, as well as acceptance and confidence in themselves as a person/their actions. This ties into the willingness to let go of their own mistakes (as well as receive the consequences that come with them,) or times when they fell short. Another sign is the ability of embracing change in setting, routine, or life as a whole. Additionally, those with high emotional intelligence are able to manage themselves (concerning their reaction, their response, or how they process the event or situation) effectively during high-stress or panic situations. They’re also grateful for what they have, and have balanced lives fitted as best as possible to their own abilities and personality, working hard to hone/progress their skills and explore outside of their comfort zone. They accept themselves for what they are and don’t shun themselves for being less than perfect.
All in all, emotionally intelligent individuals are aware of the values to place on the many specific aspects of their lives, and are adaptable to whatever life may throw their way.
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