What is emotional intelligence?

Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify, use, understand, and manage your emotions in positive and constructive ways. It's about recognizing your own emotional state and the emotional states of others. Emotional intelligence is also about engaging with others in ways that draw people to you.

Emotional intelligence consists of four core abilities:

* Self-awareness — The ability to recognize your own emotions and how they affect your thoughts and behavior; know your strengths and weaknesses; and have self-confidence.
* Self-management — The ability to control impulsive feelings and behaviors; manage your emotions in healthy ways; take initiative; follow through on commitments; and adapt to changing circumstances.
* Social awareness — The ability to understand the emotions, needs, and concerns of other people; pick up on emotional cues; feel comfortable socially; and recognize the power dynamics in a group or organization.
* Relationship management — The ability to develop and maintain good relationships; communicate clearly; inspire and influence others; work well in a team; and manage conflict.

Developing emotional intelligence through five key skills:

Emotional intelligence consists of five key skills, each building on the last:

* Emotional intelligence (EQ) skill 1: The ability to quickly reduce stress.
* Emotional intelligence (EQ) skill 2: The ability to recognize and manage your emotions.
* Emotional intelligence (EQ) skill 3: The ability to connect with others using nonverbal communication.
* Emotional intelligence (EQ) skill 4: The ability to use humor and play to deal with challenges.
* Emotional intelligence (EQ) skill 5: The ability to resolve conflicts positively and with confidence.