Improving Your Emotional Intelligence – Strategies to Use in Relationships

As human beings, relationship dynamics can be as unique and complex as the people involved. As our relationships progress, displaying an awareness of emotional intelligence (EI) is paramount, however if it’s not a natural strength for you it can be overwhelming, frustrating, and difficult. Here, we will discuss what emotional intelligence is, tips for developing your EI and then how you can best utilize those skills in relationships.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to your ability to recognize and comprehend emotions, be conscious of your own emotions and implications, both in yourself and in others. It’s also the capacity of effectively using such knowledge to control and direct your own behavior. Developing your EI is a key component to enhancing your relationships, while It allows us to assess situations before making decisions, gain new understandings and perspectives, and support others when they need it most. People with higher levels of EI can work better collaboratively and have more successful interpersonal relationships.

Tips for Developing Your Emotional Intelligence

Below are some suggestions for how to develop your EI.

1. Be willing to understand & listen to emotion. Pay attention to body language, your own emotional reactions, and the feelings experienced by others.

2. Acknowledge emotional moments- embrace them and practice being fully present.

3. Notice the difference between logical & emotional responses. Think through rational and emotional points of view, offering explanation in a calm manner.

4. Identify and express your feelings- knowing what you’re feeling and communicating this clearly is necessary for bettering communication and deepening understanding in any type of relationship.

5. Challenge your beliefs: reflect on underlying thoughts and emotions, resist toxic influences and try to observe objective facts.

6. Reflect on behavior: recognize why certain actions make sense in a given moment, yet realize how they may benefit or hurt yourself or another person in the long run.

7. Consider situations from multiple viewpoints: Breakdown biases, overcome pre-existing assumptions and be able to accept or take in new information.

8. Manage anger and stress: Figure out sources of tension, be aware of individual triggers and practice positive coping skills like mindfulness.

Utilizing Your Emotional Intelligence in Relationships

Developing EI is imperative for sustaining healthy relationships with those around you. As you continue to practice the tips above, here’s how you can take advantage of them in relationships:

● Communicate Effectively – As interactions between people can be unpredictable, it’s important to focus on being honest, respectful and informative. Additionally, actively listen to your partner and be open to understanding opinions that differ from yours.

● Respond Constructively - It’s not enough to simply listen to one another; It requires active engagement. Refrain from responding too quickly, think about the implications of your reaction, and make sure to offer feedback that is positive and constructive.

● Show Respect - It’s no secret that respect is a two-way street. Not only should you expect respect from your partner, but also give it! This includes treating them with kindness, courtesy and discretion within any interaction. Keep in mind that respect for one another is essential for long-term success in any relationship.

● Validate Feelings - Emotionally intelligent people show empathy in understanding and validating how a person feels or experiences a situation. Always respond to feeling in a compassionate, non-judgmental way and try to find ways to build connection, even through conflict.

● Remain Connected - Spend time together engaging in activities you both find enjoyable. Connect beyond just conversations and strive to create space for deeper conversations and relatedness.

Developing your emotional intelligence may come more easily to some than others, but with effort, dedication and practice you can be on your way to being emotionally intelligent in your relationships. Remember that gaining self-awareness, recognizing the emotions and needs of others, and regulating your own emotions in a constructive and balanced way can help foster healthy and harmonious relationships.