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If you treat emotions like distractions, you’re missing out on one of your most powerful leadership tools. Emotional intelligence isn’t about being touchy-feely—it’s about using emotional data to lead with clarity, resilience, and trust. Here’s how to make that shift. Notice what emotions are telling you. Start by paying attention to physical cues, energy shifts, and behavioral changes in yourself and others. Tight shoulders? A teammate’s silence? These aren’t random—they’re signals. Tune in instead of brushing past them. Name emotions more precisely. Avoid vague labels like “stressed” or “fine.” Build a broader emotional vocabulary to improve self-awareness and reduce reactivity. Ask more specific questions—to yourself and your team—to unlock clearer insights and deeper connection. Look for the need behind the feeling. Emotions are messengers. Once you’ve identified them, ask: What is this feeling trying to tell me? What need or value is it pointing to? Extend that same curiosity toward others to uncover what might be unspoken. Normalize emotional expression. Model openness without oversharing. Acknowledge shared stress during tough moments or invite honest reflection in meetings. When emotions are seen as normal, trust and performance rise. Make it a great day!
Source: Harvard Business Review |
