How to Handle Different Emotions with EQ

Emotional Intelligence (EQ), or the ability to recognize and understand emotions, and then use that information to guide decision making. Emotionally Intelligent individuals understand that every emotion, even the quote-unquote “negative emotions” have their value. Every emotion provides data and a greater self-awareness that allows one to have a more dynamic thought process. 
    

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Sadness​

• Sadness allows you to process situations. High EQ people will understand that their sadness isn’t forever and that the purpose of this emotion is valid. Sadness promotes thoughtfulness, empathy, and resilience. It forces you to slow down and take time to understand the way that you are feeling. This emotion can give you the time to reflect on this moment in your life. Sadness requires nurturing so that you can learn to live with and respect this trauma, loss, or whatever it may be.
  
  • Tip: It’s okay to be sad, you don’t always have to put on a happy face. However, it is important not to dwell on this emotion and instead utilize it to grow from times of hardship. ​
    

Boredom

• Boredom can affect anyone. Although sometimes it can be considered a negative emotion, it also can push people towards new hobbies, interactions with others, or an opportunity for self-reflection. Utilize Emotional Intelligence when you are bored and take the time to improve your self-awareness. 
  • ​Tip: When boredness hits, take that moment to do something new or learn about who you are.

Anger

• Anger can be a powerful emotion. It can have negative consequences, but an Emotionally Intelligent person will take the time to understand why they are feeling this anger and how to manage it. Anger can let you know that the current situation is no longer acceptable, and you should adjust to reduce this feeling. 
  
  • Tip: Remove yourself from the situation, take a moment to breathe, and consider how you will constructively deal with your anger. ​
    

Happiness

• Emotionally intelligent people typically have higher levels of happiness than others because they can process negative emotions more quickly. While happiness is generally the most desirable emotion, it is vital to understand that it is not the only emotion. Remember, negative emotions are temporary, and you will resume happiness once more. 
  
  • Tip: Accept happiness wholeheartedly and stay present with your positive emotions.​
    

Fear

• Fear and anxiety can feel debilitating, but it also has the unique ability to create high amounts of energy. Emotionally Intelligent people recognize when they start to feel symptoms of fear and try to look for the root cause of this emotion. A valid fear can also ignite irrational fears, recognize the difference and dismiss irrational fears for being unrealistic. Many times fear hinders us from trying new things. Fear can be a hindrance to our lives, or it can be vital for protecting ones-self. 
  
  • Tip: Many times, fear comes from our perceived lack of knowledge of something. Be confident in what you know and accept the things you don’t. Take the moments where you lack knowledge as an opportunity to learn more.