|
|
[i]written by Lori Jo Vest[/i]Have you ever heard the term Emotional Intelligence? Also referred to as “EQ,” simply defined, it means “being smart with feelings so you can develop optimal relationships with yourself and others.” This EQ concept first came to light in 1995, when Daniel Goleman wrote his book Emotional Intelligence. While it’s most often discussed as a tool to improve business relationships between colleagues, it’s a viable skill that could help you successfully navigate just about any situation in your life, including managing incontinence.Ways to measure success in life vary, though they include ability to achieve results, physical health, personal support, stress management, and life satisfaction. Research shows that traditional intelligence measurements (known as IQ) can only impact about 20% of a person’s “success” in life. Emotional intelligence (EQ) meanwhile, proves to be a powerful influence toward someone’s success in life, accounting for an additional 54% of success, depending on how it’s measured. If you have high levels of EQ, you’re more likely to possess the following traits:[b]Self-awareness, which means you:[/b]• Recognize and appropriately express emotion• Recognize choices and reactions[b]Self-management, which means you:[/b]• Learn from, and transform, your feelings• Evaluate the costs and benefits of certain choices (before making them)• Identify several options you may have in any particular situation• Create your own internal energy and drive[b]Self-direction, which means you:[/b]• Recognize the feelings of others and respond appropriately• Align your daily choices with your beliefs and life purpose Can you grow your EQ and your ability to better handle life’s challenges? Fortunately, the answer is a resounding yes! Here are a few tips:[b]Practice Reducing or Eliminating Negative Thoughts.[/b] When you feel yourself heading down a pessimistic path, put a stop to it. Take a detour and do something you enjoy, like going for a bike ride, relaxing in the tub or calling your best friend. Some people even wear a rubber band around their wrist and snap it when they feel a negative thought coming on to break the pattern with a sting. The more your practice this, the easier it gets. [b]Teach Yourself to Control Your Anger.[/b] Feel yourself staring to get angry? Before you say or do something you’ll regret, take a deep breath and count to ten. Or take a break from the situation and splash cold water on your face. Yes, these te
|
