Do you know someone who makes good money and is effective in the workplace? Chances are they have a high EQ.
Dr. Travis Bradberry and Nick Tasler, in an article at TalentSmart.com reveal how EQ is directly related to salary. They tested 42,000 people and compared their scores and salaries. Those with high Emotional Intelligence make an average of $29,000 more per year. And, every point increase of EQ adds another $1300.
Have I gotten your attention?
Unlike IQ, EQ can be developed and improved with education and effort. Honesty and courage are needed to face the truth about our emotions and behavior. But analysis is important in order to make positive changes. Those changes may require practice and patience plus the input of someone who will give you honest feedback.
In their book, Emotional Intelligence 2.0, authors Bradberry and Greaves list specific strategies to work on in 4 key categories: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.
Here are a few strategies they suggest:
- Know who and what pushes your buttons
- Stop and ask yourself why you do the things you do
- Learn a valuable lesson from everyone you encounter
- Smile and laugh more
- Greet people by name
- Practice the art of listening
- Take feedback well
- Acknowledge other people’s feelings
It is no surprise that people with these characteristics can be successful.
The Apostle Paul wrote: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control….” Practicing what the Bible teaches and sincerely serving others will have benefits.
And teaching these things to our young people will give them a tremendous advantage.
