How aware of your emotions are you?
Our emotions influence how we think and perceive. Sometimes, they emerge in ways we do not intend. They show up in our tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. Our emotions influence our behavior. In turn, they impact the way we interact with others.
“Emotional self-awareness” is the skill of perceiving and understanding our own feelings. It is the link between our emotional intelligence and our relationships. We can develop this skill by periodically stopping and reflecting on the way we feel at a particular moment. If we take it a step further, we can consider how our emotions affect the way we act in that particular moment. The way we feel affects the way we perform and how we might be coming across to others.
We develop the skill of self-awareness by focusing in on the sources of our emotions. Our values and beliefs are a good place to start. We don’t have to change them. But being aware of how you respond to a given situation affords valuable foresight how to prepare. It is also good to know your trigger points that get you to feel a certain way.
Developing self-awareness is the first step on your journey to becoming an emotionally intelligent individual.
