Strong emotional intelligence may reduce workplace stress, improve employee performance

News - Employee Wellness

Thursday, 29 September 2011 16:00

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Emotional intelligence is defined as an aptitude at identifying and managing emotions in a way that is healthy and constructive, according to HelpGuide.org.

The nonprofit organization reports that there are four factors that influence emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management.

The first component involves being more aware of one's own emotions and what effect they have on actions and thoughts. Part of this is knowing personal strengths and weaknesses. Self-management is the skill to control negative responses to stressful or challenging communications and or situations. It involves handling feelings and situations in a way that yields positive results. These two aspects are integral for employees dealing with intense workplace stress.

Additionally, workers need the skills to build good relationships with co-workers. Social awareness is the ability to recognize how others may be feeling and respond appropriately. Relationship management is key in helping to influence, manage and inspire others.

Research that was conducted at the Institute of HeartMath revealed that heart rate variability feedback, which helps individuals gain heart rate coherence, may significantly reduce workplace stress as it allows users to view changes in their emotional state. Technology offered by HeartMath provides this in an e-learning format.