220- Emotional Intelligence

Definition

• Emotional intelligence (EI): ability to identify, assess, and influence emotions in oneself and others.

Core Components

• Self-awareness: recognize and name your feelings.
• Self-management: regulate your emotions to shape the surrounding atmosphere.
• Social awareness: accurately read others’ emotional states (empathy).
• Relationship management: use emotions intentionally to influence, motivate, and resolve conflict.

Why EI Matters in Communication

• Face-to-face interaction conveys rich emotional cues (voice, facial expression, gestures).
• "It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it"—tone and passion drive impact.
• Shared emotions are contagious: \text{happy} \rightarrow \text{happy},\; \text{upset} \rightarrow \text{upset}.

Practical Implications for Leaders/Teams

• Monitor personal mood; chaotic emotions create chaotic environments.
• Detect when team members are stuck, angry, or frustrated; intervene early.
• Positive, passionate delivery boosts engagement and willingness to change (e.g., adopt Agile practices).

Desired Outcomes

• Foster environments where people leave interactions feeling better than when they arrived.
• Leverage EI to motivate, influence, and drive constructive change.