3 Danger Signs of Misusing Emotional Intelligence
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There has been ample discussion of how emotional intelligence contributes to growth. Its key benefits include developing positive qualities and relationships in personal and professional situations. Despite being constructive, it can have a negative impact, depending on how it is used. This article looks into the misuse of this type of intelligence and its connection to rationality.
Emotions Complement Rationality
While it is often believed that emotions can lead to irrational behavior, the actual distinction lies in how we perceive emotions and what actions we take when they arise. When we understand that emotional intelligence is closely linked to rationality, we realize how emotions can be tools that tell us something important and useful rather than something destructive that must be avoided or suppressed. Aiming to learn from it and seek its usefulness, whether it is your or other people’s emotions, is the rational way to deal with them.
When Emotional Intelligence become harmful
It is possible for individuals with less experience to use emotional intelligence incorrectly, despite numerous evidence supporting its compelling benefits. It goes beyond its strategic qualities. It is also about knowing the reason and origin that compel us to act a certain way. Simply put, it is about knowing the root of the problem and its solution. The following signs are some indications that emotions can be damaging:
1. Self-Interested Intentions
Several motives in the professional setting may influence our priorities and behavior, such as competitiveness and authority. While both attributes are strong driving forces that motivate people, they can easily lead to manipulative or controlling behavior for personal gain. Developing this type of intelligence gives us a step up in power to deal with difficult situations. Still, when that power consumes and blinds the person into disregarding basic work ethics, there is a need to reconsider the intentions and priorities.
Learn how to be well-intentioned with others through “How To Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. This insightful book offers real-life experiences that specifically outline a well-rounded mindset.
2. Disconnected From Reality
As mentioned, experience is key to using emotions wisely. Specifically, this is our intuition. Responses guided not only by logical reasoning but also by intuitive insights result in more informed and fulfilling resolutions. However, intuition is not something you easily pick up from text or even this article. It is a skill that takes time and experience to hone. This means that emotions must be grounded in reality, where there are diverse perspectives that we should be willing and ready to encounter. When we practice thinking beyond our internal experiences and continually seek to understand others, we begin to embrace such experiences from different angles.
Want to learn how specific real-life experiences foster emotional regulation? Check out our video, “How to Control Your Emotions” for insights on how to begin regulating your emotions daily.
3. Fear and Lack of Accountability
Relying on emotional control when resolving conflict with people may seem appealing at first, but it could produce more complications over time. Staying focused on how others feel can be a detriment to your decision-making processes, as it may lead to choosing safer options or band-aid solutions. A certain level of emotional regulation could potentially make us reluctant and sensitive, hindering our capacity for growth and innovation. If we act out of fear and avoidance, we could end up depriving ourselves of the necessary amount of responsibility to not only achieve goals but also bring success in the long run.
Emotional intelligence in practice is another layer of knowledge. Know more about how to regulate your emotions by watching our video on “How To Control Your Emotions.”
Key Takeaways
- Emotional intelligence and rationality complement each other, depending on how we rationally perceive and use our emotions to learn about ourselves.
- Dealing with our emotions should be an encouraging force toward others rather than a controlling one.
- Emotions come from the intuition we hone from the experiences we seek to not just overcome but also genuinely learn from.
- With the right intentions and priorities, this type of intelligence can bring balance to making solutions that are both considerate and productive.
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Drevitch, G. (2024, May 28). The roots of intuition and emotional intelligence. Psychology Today. Retrieved August 21, 2024.
Idris, O. (2023). Discussion on the role of emotional intelligence in financial decision-making. Journal of Policy Options, 6(4), 20-29.
Rationality and Emotional Intelligence: Bridging the Paradox. (2024, June 27). Faster Capital. Retrieved August 21, 2024.
Viezzer, S. (2024, January 29). The dark side of emotional intelligence. SimplyPsychology. Retrieved August 21, 2024.
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