Social/Emotional Intelligence
Strengths of Heart
SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE
Social/Emotional intelligence is understanding feelings and using them to inform actions.
Although there is some disagreement about the exact terminology to use, social and emotional intelligence both refer to the ability to understand your own and others’ feelings and emotions and then to use this understanding to inform your decisions and actions. Socially/emotionally intelligent people solve interpersonal problems quickly by understanding what is upsetting others and being empathetic to these concerns. They tend to recognize when they've said something that made someone uncomfortable and know what makes others "tick.” Socially/emotionally intelligent people are able to thrive in many different relationships and settings because they quickly learn the social rules.
Although there is some disagreement about the exact terminology to use, social and emotional intelligence both refer to the ability to understand your own and others’ feelings and emotions and then to use this understanding to inform your decisions and actions. Socially/emotionally intelligent people solve interpersonal problems quickly by understanding what is upsetting others and being empathetic to these concerns. They tend to recognize when they've said something that made someone uncomfortable and know what makes others "tick.” Socially/emotionally intelligent people are able to thrive in many different relationships and settings because they quickly learn the social rules.
Observing Social/Emotional Intelligence
It’s important to recognize that social intelligence is different from just “getting along” with others or following rules. Being socially intelligent could involve:
It’s important to recognize that social intelligence is different from just “getting along” with others or following rules. Being socially intelligent could involve:
- Finding solutions during conflicts with others
- Demonstrating respect for the feelings of others
- Adapting to different social situations
