The power of emotional intelligence in leadership.

The Institute for Health and Human Potential reports that over 80% of the skills and abilities that set the best team members apart are underpinned by emotional intelligence.

With more than 1800 hours of coaching and over 90 EQ tests and debriefs under my belt, I concur with this statistic.

But why does EQ matter so much in organisations? And does it have an impact on the bottom line?

Carol Lowe, Executive Vice President & CFO of FLIR Systems, noted in Forbes magazine that efforts to bolster emotional intelligence might seem "fluffy," but they pay real financial dividends. This is because emotional intelligence helps people understand each other and themselves better, facilitating a more collaborative and efficient workplace environment.

Lauren Landry from Harvard Business School concurs, emphasising that self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management are essential for effective leadership. Leaders must grasp their own EQ to properly set the tone for their organisations and effectively respond to challenges.

Leaders equipped to guide their teams through uncertain times are those who deeply understand themselves, can self-regulate, and assist others in doing the same.

In recent leadership development programs for corporate clients, I’ve tackled themes like isolation, fear, and uncertainty about the future—issues that call for strong emotional intelligence in order for teams to manage.

From personal reflection during challenging times, I've learned the importance of self-care and emotional intelligence in not just surviving, but thriving. These insights remind us that we must sometimes take a step back and focus on our own well-being to continue caring for others effectively.

In the face of ongoing leadership challenges, prioritising your emotional intelligence and self-care is crucial.

Tell me, what strategies have you found most effective for maintaining your well-being while leading others?