The concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) is often explained through a model that divides it into four quadrants, which was popularized by Daniel Goleman. These quadrants represent different areas of EI skills that together encompass one’s ability to recognize, understand, manage, and use emotions effectively in various aspects of life.
The four quadrants of emotional intelligence are…
- Self-awareness – This quadrant involves understanding one’s own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and impact on others. It’s the ability to be conscious of your emotional states and how they affect your thoughts and behavior.
- Self-management (or Self-regulation) – This involves controlling or redirecting one’s disruptive emotions and impulses and adapting to changing circumstances. It includes managing stress, being flexible, and maintaining a positive outlook in the face of challenges.
- Social Awareness (or Empathy) – This quadrant focuses on the ability to understand the emotions, needs, and concerns of other people, pick up on emotional cues, feel comfortable socially, and recognize the power dynamics in a group or organization.
- Relationship Management – This involves the skills necessary to inspire, influence, and develop others while managing conflict. It encompasses communicating clearly, leading by example, working well in a team, and managing relationships effectively.
These quadrants highlight that EI is not just about understanding and managing one’s own emotions but also involves navigating and managing relationships with others in an empathetic and effective manner.
