Assignment on Emotional Intelligence, Essay Example

Abstract

The paper discusses the results of a web-based Emotional Intelligence test and their psychological implications. The paper is designed to investigate the concept of emotional intelligence and the ways of improving emotional balance in individuals. The analysis is based on the discussion of what emotional intelligence is and how it works. A set of recommendations is provided to help individuals improve the state of EI.

Introduction

Emotional Intelligence (EI) has already become the topic of the major psychological concern. Professionals in psychology and organization studies view EI as the key to improved individual and organizational performance, improved leadership skills, and better emotional potential. Numerous tests were designed to evaluate and assess the state of EI in people. Psychologists view EI as a matter of measuring one’s emotional balance. However, to make sure that EI works for and not against an individual, it is important not only to evaluate the state of one’s EI, but to use the results of EI tests to improve and modify the most problematic aspects of one’s emotional performance.

By using a web-based EI test, I was able to evaluate and measure my EI. The score of 97 has revealed an average result, meaning that I am “able to recognize and deal with my own emotions and those of others in a reasonably effective manner” (Discovery Health, 2009). These results also suggest that my level of emotional health is satisfactory: I have an ability to deal with others and express my needs (Discovery Health, 2009). However, these average results also imply that I do not use my emotional potential to the fullest (Discovery Health, 2009). The better I learn to manage my emotions, the more likely I am to succeed in developing stronger relationships, making a more successful career, and achieving and maintaining better emotional health (Discovery Health, 2009). The question is in HOW and WHAT I can do to make these improvements real.

Generally, emotional intelligence (EI) is defined as “the subset of social intelligence that involves the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and actions” (Salovey & Mayer, 1990). That means that regardless of what area of performance we choose, it is always loaded with affective information, which we process and then use for the sake of achieving different psychological objectives. In simpler words, EI means that individuals are able to monitor their and others’ moods and emotions, and to use this knowledge to predict and redirect their own behaviors. Given a wealth of literature on the topic, as well as the variety of resources that speak about EI, numerous actions and activities can be used to improve one’s emotional balance and to enhance the quality of emotional relationships with others.

To begin with, taking responsibility for personal emotions and happiness can be fairly regarded as the first step to improved EI (Jarboe, 1999). That means that a person must be able to evaluate the meaning of his (her) emotions and their impact on everyday life. Second, it is essential that an individual concentrates on his (her) own feelings and emotions, instead of blaming others for what they say, do or feel toward each particular situation (Jarboe, 1999). Third, a person who can reconsider a negative situation from a humorous perspective has a better control of emotions and feelings. This, however, is impossible without being honest and direct with oneself, because honesty requires recognizing negative emotions and the need for controlling and reducing their impact on different life situations (Jarboe, 1999). In this context, respect stands out as another effective means to train EI: respecting other people’s feelings is an important step toward respecting one’s own feelings and perceptions. Finally, non-verbal communication should become a critical element of one’s emotional performance (Jarboe, 1999). Training emotional intelligence usually takes time, and one should be prepared to face difficulties on his (her) way to improved emotional balance, but all these difficulties will train one’s emotional stability and one’s ability to respect others’ emotions in different situations.

Conclusion

For an individual to have an average level of EI means to be able to control his (her) emotions and emotions of other people. This, however, also means that such individual does not realize his (her) emotional potential to the fullest. Respecting others’ emotions, using non-verbal communication, and being honest with oneself will help individuals cope with the major emotional difficulties and enhance the quality of their emotional interactions with others.

References

Discovery Health. (2009). Emotional IQ test. Retrieved September 13, 2009 from http://discoveryhealth.queendom.com/eiq_abridged_access.html

Jarboe, E. (1999). Emotional intelligence. Retrieved September 13, 2009 from http://www.pioneerthinking.com/ej_ei.html

Salovey, P. & Mayer, J.D. (1990). Emotional Intelligence. Bywood Publishing.