Emotional Intelligence Is the Key to Productivity

This article comes from Entrepreneur.

Emotional Intelligence Is the Key to Productivity

EI is simply our ability to read, feel and respond to our emotions and the emotions of those around us. EI consists of the following four components:

• Self-awareness. Recognizing your feelings, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Self-management. Regulating your emotions so that you have a “cool head.”
• Social awareness. The social skills to read an audience and clearly communicate your message to that specific group.
• Relationship management. Empathy for others so that you can build a deeper relationship with them.

Here are seven reasons why emotional intelligence is the key to productivity.

1. Increases self-awareness.

Self-awareness is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence — studies show that those with higher emotional intelligence are often more self-aware.

When you’re self-aware you know your strengths and weaknesses, so you don’t waste time on activities outside your wheelhouse. For example, if you want an app for your startup, but are only a novice coder, then why you would spend the time building the app yourself? Wouldn’t you hire a skilled coder to build the app while you focus on what you excel at, such as marketing the business?

At the same time, self awareness will lead you to sharpen your existing skills so that you can complete important tasks much faster and easier.

2. Promotes self-motivation.

Individuals with a high EI also tend to be more self-driven and not motivated by money or titles. Their intrinsic motivation is what drives them to get things done, learn new ways to grow and strive always to improve. Self-motivated learners are naturally curious and frequently ask questions. As they search for answers, they pick-up new skills and knowledge that can be applied to their lives.

They also hold themselves accountable for completing projects and overcoming obstacles. They know the value of time and have the discipline to block-out distractions so they’re always one-step ahead.

They anticipate new challenges and are always on the lookout for the latest trends and technology to make them successful.

3. Helps you accept feedback.

We all make mistakes but few of us enjoys hearing about it from others. However, accepting constructive criticism is necessary for improving the quality of our work.

For example, when I started guest blogging I received a lot of feedback from editors noting my mistakes but also pointers on how to improve my writing skills. Over time I became a much better writer who made fewer mistakes — which meant less time making revisions. More importantly, I was able to crank-out articles much faster by using their advice.

4. Encourages collaboration and strategic partnerships.

No surprise here. Emotionally intelligent people are better at collaborating with others to build strategic partnerships.

This is essential for startups. Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of your team allows you to assign them the right tasks instead of trying to handle everything on your own. And, you also have the communication skills to clearly explain the goals and expectations for these responsibilities. You can also explain your vision with partners, customers and influencers to motivate them become brand advocates.

Also, with EI you’re better suited to read their emotions.

Being able to clearly communicate your expectation, providing autonomy, and being empathetic can boost happiness and morale in the workplace. As a result, everyone’s performance will improve.

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