The Gift Of Being “Heart Smart”
 | Author:
Ellie West, Master Certified Practitioner in NLP, TLT, & Hypnotherapy & Enneagram Coach.
Inside Inspiration: Certified NLP Coach/Practitioner Of Hypnosis and Timeline Therapy |
The Gift of Being “Heart Smart”
Ellie West, Master Certified Practitioner in NLP, TLT, Hypnotherapy & Enneagram Coach
I recently came across a post about Emotional Intelligence that resonated deeply with me.
Honestly, I had never heard of emotional intelligence, also known as EI or EQ. As I reflected on the concept, I pondered its simple meaning.
For me, I cherish deep and meaningful conversations, savoring the moments that give others hope, encouragement, support, and inspiration.
Growing up, I often felt out of place and like a misfit. I was labeled as not smart and frequently compared to those who excelled academically. This limiting belief weighed heavily on me for years.
However, exploring emotional intelligence affirmed my uniqueness and gave me freedom and clarity. I realized that being different was part of God’s greater purpose and plan for my life.
Regardless of who you are or your intelligence, the world needs you to share your unique gifts!
In a world that often celebrates being book-smart or street-smart, there is another form of intelligence that doesn’t always receive attention: being heart-smart—wisdom gained from life’s experiences, self-reflection, and the courage to grow.
Take heart if you’ve ever felt like a misfit, unsure of where you fit into the mold society creates. You have received a precious gift as heart-smart people navigate life's challenges with compassion, often uncovering grace in the face of failure and discovering strength in moments of surrender.
You’re the one who listens deeply when someone needs to be heard. You offer calm during chaos because you’ve learned to regulate your storms. You see beyond the surface because life has taught you to value what’s unseen.
Proverbs 4:7 reminds us, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom.”
Heart-smart individuals understand this truth. They aren’t perfect, but they are learning, growing, and turning to God for guidance every day.
Are you smart with your heart? That's basically what Emotional Intelligence (EI) is all about! It's not just about how intelligent you are; it’s about understanding and managing emotions—yours and others. Let’s break down the core components of EI and see how they shape our interactions and decisions!
* Self-awareness: This is your emotional compass! It involves recognizing your feelings and understanding the reasons behind those feelings, including anger. You will identify that anger with high Emotional Intelligence instead of allowing it to lead to rash decisions.
* Self-regulation: This acts as your emotional brake pedal. It involves stepping back and managing your emotions effectively. Imagine this: you're in a heated debate, yet you maintain your composure instead of raising your voice. That’s self-regulation in action!
* Empathy is your emotional superpower! It enables you to connect with others' feelings and perspectives. If a friend feels down, you'll sense their sadness even if they haven’t expressed it. Empathy is about forming a deeper connection.
*Social skills: Communication is essential, and your ability to connect with others truly stands out. Whether you’re resolving conflicts, building relationships, or collaborating in a team, strong social skills make you a magnet for people!
* Motivation is your internal drive. It is fueled by personal aspirations rather than external validation, such as money or recognition. When you pursue goals that align with your values, you unlock your true potential!
In simple terms, emotional intelligence is about being "people-smart." It allows you to understand emotions and navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and insight. What is the best part? Emotional intelligence is a skill that we can all nurture, develop, and grow from.
Here’s how to enhance your emotional intelligence:
* In difficult situations, when you manage to maintain your composure, congratulations! You are developing your self-regulation skills.
* You increase your empathy by actively listening and striving to understand without judgment.
* Recognizing your emotional triggers and responding thoughtfully deepens your self-awareness.
So, if you’ve ever felt that being “different” made you less than others, know this: God doesn’t put you in a box. He sees your heart and delights in how you reflect His love. "You’re not a misfit—you’re a masterpiece."
Emotional Intelligence isn’t merely a concept; it’s a game-changer! Discover how this powerful tool can transform your relationships and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
As you welcome the New Year, embrace the quiet strength of emotional intelligence and allow your wisdom, empathy, and grace to shine as a reflection of the One who created you with purpose. Remember, your messy yet beautiful journey has equipped you to inspire hope in others.
To connect with on FB: coachelliewest Master Certified Practitioner in NLP, TLT, Hypnotherapy & Enneagram Coach.
