Everything…
Self-Awareness: A deeper understanding of yourself; your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, values and norms. Understanding who you are, why you do what you do, how you respond to people and situations and how others are impacted by you are all at the center of self-awareness. A term that is frequently used is Emotional Intelligence (EQ).
Emotional Intelligence: The ability to identify, assess and manage one’s own feelings, and to have a higher degree of understanding of the thoughts, feelings and behaviors of others. More importantly, to reach a higher state of emotional intelligence requires you to understand yourself and others, and to regulate your emotions for the common good.
“Emotional intelligence draws on qualities far beyond empathy. It emanates from the dynamic intersection of healthy power, heart and mindfulness.” – Dr. Sam Alibrando
Improving your EQ can lead to greater life satisfaction, but according to a Harvard University research study, even though most people believe they are self-aware, only 10-15% of the people they studied actually fit the criteria. However, don’t fret, you can improve your EQ and it starts with self-awareness.
I could load you up with a list of research articles and EQ books to read but time is valuable, and I want to make your first step into the world of self-discovery easy. Improving your EQ can start right now. I invite you to ask yourself the following questions. Write your answers down if you have the time.
What do you value most?
What makes me feel happy?
How are you spending your time and energy?
How does question 3 align with questions 1 and 2?
Pause to reflect on what you have discovered. Self-awareness is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and it can serve as your road-map to greater life satisfaction. Self-discovery can be done in many areas but reflecting on these four questions is a great place to start.
“Become awake to who you really are and don’t keep it a secret, share it with the world.” – Terrie Elizabeth Reeves
Online EQ Quiz:
Disclaimer: The quiz is 146 questions and takes about 45 minutes to complete. It is comprehensive and free but there is a small fee if you want to receive your complete results. Your call!
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