Emotional intelligence is the ‘it’ factor in today’s fast-paced world. It’s what sets people apart from one another, making them more secure, self-aware, and empathetic. In this article, we’ll explore three high-level emotionally intelligent tendencies that signify someone has it.

1. Responding Instead of Reacting

When confronted, emotionally intelligent individuals quickly reflect on the other person’s perspective, allowing them to respond rather than react. This enables them to think about the issue critically, decide whether they’re at fault, and reply with a balanced and wise rebuttal. On the other hand, people with low emotional intelligence tend to react impulsively, deflecting accountability and using their fervor to shut down the person who brought up the issue. This often leads to a chasm in the relationship, as the problem is not remedied.

Responding instead of reacting requires a high level of self-awareness and emotional regulation. Emotionally intelligent individuals are equipped to think about the other person’s perspective, evaluate their own role in the issue, and respond accordingly. This skill is essential in building strong relationships and resolving conflicts effectively.

2. Setting Healthy Boundaries

Emotionally intelligent individuals are not passive-aggressive; instead, they set boundaries to protect themselves from being exploited. They recognize that kindness can be taken advantage of, and they use this as an opportunity to grow and learn. When confronted with a situation where they’re being taken advantage of, they set a boundary by being clear and direct about their needs and expectations. This doesn’t require them to be cold or rude; rather, they find creative ways to implement boundaries that protect them from being used in the future.

On the other hand, people with deficits in emotional intelligence tend to be angry and resentful when they feel taken advantage of. They may become passive-aggressive, sabotaging the person’s success by doing something sneaky or talking nasty about them to mutual acquaintances. This behavior is a sign of a significant deficit in emotional intelligence.

3. Embracing Accountability

Emotionally intelligent individuals apologize when they’re wrong, not when they get caught. They’re self-aware, caring about how their actions and words impact others, especially those they’re close to. They listen attentively, honor the person’s feelings, and are willing to admit their mistakes. This self-awareness and motivation to be a good person in their relationships allow them to catch their mistakes and apologize accordingly.

People with deficits in emotional intelligence tend to defend against truly knowing their own character flaws. They may not be strong enough to handle them, so they resist looking at themselves and instead feel more secure critiquing others. When they get caught, they may apologize insincerely, using excuses, justifications, and minimizations. This behavior is a sign of insincerity and may indicate that they’ll repeat the same mistake.

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a gift when used wisely. Responding instead of reacting, setting healthy boundaries, and embracing accountability in a relationship are top-tier emotionally intelligent tendencies. By adopting these behaviors, individuals can build strong relationships, resolve conflicts effectively, and foster trust and closeness with those around them.