Although much progress has been made in embracing emotional well-being amongst the population there are still people who think that taking care of emotions makes you weak, emotional, or too sensitive; this couldn’t be farther from the truth. To understand emotion and how to appropriately manage and express feelings is key to navigating regular interactions with others and difficult situations that only go well with a deep, meaningful, human connection.
In leadership, strength and resilience are often praised, but why is emotional intelligence not always given the same level of appreciation? Emotions are vital in getting through stressful situations including the constant drive to change and adapt to the situation in front of us. Winning at the challenges faced each day is anything but weak.
Leadership requires energy and dedication; exercising your skills in emotional intelligence are no exception. If not done correctly burn out can set in which challenges even the strongest emotional well-being.
If you are noticing signs of emotional neglect, such as a lack of quality time with loved ones, stagnation in hobbies, frequent negative emotions, or a diminished sense of appreciation, it’s time to act and restore your emotional energy.
Your emotional well-being requires you to endure your feelings, sometimes resulting in a feeling of vulnerability.
The strength to recover your emotional wellness can be demonstrated by:
Exercising Self-Reflection:
Begin by being brutally honest with yourself about your current emotional state. Identify negative thoughts and explore the underlying issues behind your feelings. Self-reflection is an essential step in understanding your emotions and taking charge of your well-being.
Seeking Support:
Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family members, or even a professional to discuss your experiences and emotions. Building a support network allows you to share similar experiences and receive valuable guidance through life’s challenges.
Setting Boundaries:
Embrace the power of saying “no” and prioritize self-care. Overcommitting to tasks and ignoring your limits can lead to emotional deterioration. By setting boundaries, you ensure that your emotional well-being remains intact.
Establishing a Routine:
Create a structured routine that includes time for wellness and relaxation activities. Predictability and stability reduce the emotional response to unexpected situations, granting you greater control over your emotions.
Continue Learning and Growing:
Engage in activities that stimulate your mind, such as reading books, participating in workshops, or pursuing hobbies. Continuous learning enhances emotional wellness and contributes to personal growth.
Practicing Appreciation and Gratitude:
Shift your thinking towards positivity by recognizing your accomplishments and expressing gratitude for the contributions of those around you. These practices can transform your mindset and boost emotional well-being.
The ability to demonstrate emotional intelligence requires a leader to be emotionally well. Emotional wellness activities should be respected as much as physical and nutritional wellness. Like any other lifestyle choice, you must adopt what is manageable for you. Wellness, including emotional wellness is a marathon rather than a sprint: go at a pace that suits you and commit to improving your skills over time.