As mentioned in the last blog, I want to dive more into the list of “How to Nurture Emotional Intelligence,” starting with Emotional Awareness.
How to Nurture Emotional Intelligence
- Emotional Awareness
- Modeling - Lead by Example
- Active Listening
- Empathy
- Problem Solving
- Manage Stress
- Conflict Resolution
- Positive Reinforcement
- Create a Safe Space
- Seek Guidance
Most of the parents attempting to raise emotionally strong and mentally healthy children find through the process they too need to work on these items as it was not necessarily modeled to them as children. I definitely do not remember being asked “tell me how that makes you feel” or “what is at the heart of these strong feelings.” It is quite laughable to think that would have occurred in my family. Nonetheless, I have no animosity or do I feel shorted because of this, which is likely due to building my own emotional intelligence plus not having large traumatic events to work through. Interestingly, emotional awareness is also where the comments or thoughts around what is “gender appropriate” come from, but let’s start from the beginning.
What is Emotional Awareness?
Emotional awareness is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence (EQ) and plays a pivotal role in effective parenting. It's the ability to recognize and understand your own emotions and those of your child. It's about recognizing and labeling emotions accurately, without judgment. When parents are emotionally aware, they create an environment where children feel safe to express their feelings, fostering healthy relationships and emotional growth.
How do you know if you are Emotionally Aware?
- Recognizing Your Own Emotions: You are able to identify and label your own emotions accurately. You can pinpoint how you're feeling in various situations and understand the reasons behind those emotions.
- Understanding Triggers: You are aware of the situations, people, or events that trigger certain emotions in you. You recognize when you're feeling upset, anxious, or stressed and can trace it back to its source.
- Acceptance of Emotions: You accept your emotions without judgment or criticism. Instead of trying to suppress or ignore them, you acknowledge them as valid and allow yourself to experience them fully.
- Ability to Express Emotions: You feel comfortable expressing your emotions in a healthy and constructive way. You can communicate how you're feeling to others without becoming overly reactive or defensive.
- Empathy Towards Others: You demonstrate empathy towards the emotions of others. You are able to understand and relate to how others are feeling, even if their experiences differ from your own.
- Effective Coping Strategies: You have developed healthy coping strategies for dealing with difficult emotions. Instead of resorting to unhealthy behaviors or avoidance, you use constructive methods such as talking to a friend, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in self-care activities.
- Mindfulness and Presence: You are present in the moment and mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. You can observe your internal experiences without becoming overwhelmed by them.
- Openness to Growth: The best and most important for last! You are open to learning and growing emotionally. You recognize that emotional awareness is a lifelong journey and are willing to explore new techniques or perspectives to enhance your emotional intelligence.
It is ok to have all in your grasp one day and none the next, one of the above completely understood and others almost never, as long as you always have the openness to grow and improve.
Let’s touch on strategies to become emotionally aware as we look at “Modeling - Leading By Example” in relation to the above next blog.