Emotional Intelligence

EQ and Workplace Performance

Can a charismatic, ego driven and emotional- intelligence deficient person become a leader? These kinds of leaders continue to be recruited. In organizations, charismatic and ego- propelled leaders who don't acknowledge the significance of emotional self- management, self- awareness and building positive relationships are chosen and promoted.

What is emotional intelligence or EQ? The term became popular in the mid- 1990's as introduced by Daniel Goleman. Further researches established the legitimacy of EQ as compared to general IQ. Since then, emotions were believed to be a legitimate factor in workplace performance. Doors were closed when it came to discussions about emotions and feelings as an aspect of competent leadership prior to EQ studies done by Goleman and other researchers.

Emotional Intelligence Can Be Developed

There are multiple intelligences, including emotional intelligence, as identified by Howard Gardener and others. EQ and other intelligences can be developed, unlike IQ or intelligence quotient which is fixed for life. Findings in neurocscience have identified how some aspects of our brain's workings influence the way we lead other people and how we behave and perform as employees.

There are different characteristics of EQ, but let's talk about the main ones:

Main Characteristics of Emotional Intelligence

• Self management
• Self awareness
• Relationship management
• Social management

In the book Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine, a coach- trainer, it was stated that of all teams and individuals, only 20% achieve their potential. According to Chamine, there are 10 mental saboteurs that hamper our performance in the workplace and can even cause harm. PQ, or positive intelligence is the amount of time that your mind acts as you friend. The battle then is about your PQ vs the mental saboteurs (that act as the enemy of your mind).

There are two dynamics as areas of focus in Chamine's research:

• Our mind becomes our worst enemy if we keep on harboring characters that actively damage our success and happiness.
• When we keep on using the muscles of our brains, we can have access to our greatest insights and wisdom, otherwise our brain muscles become weak when not used.

Through simple yet practical exercises and strategies, positive intelligence can be cultivated and can serve as a valuable leadership model and guide for dynamic change. Neuroscience research is significant to organizations, and findings have been well- documented which cites how important EQ knowledge is in the selection and training of leaders. If EQ is ignored in the process, the cost will be too high.

By the way, do you want to learn more about leadership in your company? If so, download your FREE ebook here: Guide to Elegant Courage Leadership

Jodi and Mike specialize in executive coaching with individuals and teams. http://lighthouse-leadership.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7156689