Chapter 4 – Emotional Intelligent

However, navigating disagreements requires more than just understanding ourselves. Cultivating a team environment built on trust, shared purpose, and a strong belief in collective efficacy is fundamental. Research indicates that three fundamental factors are crucial for a group’s success: mutual trust among members, a shared sense of purpose and belonging, and a belief in the group’s ability to achieve its goals. In the absence of these conditions, even if members superficially cooperate and participate, the team’s performance will be suboptimal. Individuals may withhold their full effort or contributions, hindering the group’s potential. To maximise effectiveness, a team must cultivate emotionally intelligent norms—shared attitudes and behaviors that become ingrained—which foster trust, a strong group identity, and a collective sense of efficacy (Goleman, 2006).

To enhance your emotional intelligence, begin by conducting a self-assessment to identify your specific weaknesses. Take time to reflect on your emotional responses and interactions with others. You can use Goleman’s five components of emotional intelligence – self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—as a framework for this evaluation.

Next, consider seeking guidance and constructive feedback from your manager or colleagues. They can provide valuable insights into how you are perceived in the workplace and the areas where you might improve. This feedback can help you gain a clearer understanding of your emotional strengths and weaknesses.

Once you have identified the key areas that need attention, create a plan to actively practice and develop your emotional intelligence. This could involve setting specific goals, engaging in role-playing scenarios, or even participating in workshops focused on emotional intelligence skills. By consistently practicing these skills, you will be better equipped to understand and manage your emotions, as well as effectively navigate social interactions with others.

The content is summarised on Daniel Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: How To Improve Motivation In Your Team.