What is Emotional Intelligence and why does it matter to me?

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to monitor one's own and other people's emotions, to discriminate between different emotions and label them appropriately, and to use emotional information to guide thinking and behavior. (Wiki) 

So why does it matter?

How does knowing how you are feeling and being aware of how others are feeling play a role in your day to day life? 

Your success (specifically at work) can be directly linked to your ability to be emotionally intelligent.

 Studies have shown that people with high EI have greater mental health, exemplary job performance, and more potent leadership skills. 

 "It is proposed that this may be even more important than your knowledge or skills on your job. The Carnegie Institute of Technology shows that 85 percent of your financial success is due to skills in “human engineering,” your personality and ability to communicate, negotiate, and lead". -Daphne-Scott Podcast episode 30 

Learning the art of feeling your feelings and being sensitively aware of the feelings of those around you is a skill.  Research has proven that your academic and on the job training while being very important is only part of what you can bring to the table.  The art of reading a room, knowing if someone is having a bad day by watching their body language and most importantly, knowing when you are having a bad day and how to take exquisite care of yourself.  

 If the topic of EI is of interest to you check out the Super Fantastic Leadership Show Podcast, specifically episode 30.  Daphne Scott  and Kathlyn Hendricks collaborate about articulation between feelings and thoughts.

The next few weeks I will be publishing a series of articles circulating the topic of Emotional Intelligence.

Look for the tag #WakeUpWednesday to see more about ways to enhance your lifestyle with consciousness tools. 


Lindsey Rainwater is an experienced consultant and coach  to the fitness and wellness industry.  She specializes in business development and leadership. Currently she is working with the Fitmarc Team helping club owners all over the south central region of the united states propel their business forward via group exercise solutions.  For more information about Lindsey follow her @lindseyrainh2o