Values at Work: Character - and Emotional Intelligence
Copyright Jack Mixner. 714 449 1040. www.mixnerstrategy.com
".. character development is the foundation of democratic societies. ... The bedrock of character is self-discipline; the virtuous life, as philosophers since Aristotle have observed, is based on self-control. A related keystone of character is being able to motivate and guide oneself, whether in doing homework, finishing a job, or getting up in the morning. And, as we have seen, the ability to defer gratification and to control and channel one's urges to act is a basic emotional skill, one that in a former day was called will" (Goldman, page 285).
Strategic Implications
IQ is just part of the story. Emotional intelligence may be more important. I return to it each time I realize I have spoken too soon in an important, stressful, conversation. That pause at the right time to recoup your thoughts is good evidence of a high EQ. It may make the difference in succeeding - or failing.
Improving your emotional intelligence increases the likelihood of success.
In facilitating a strategic planning session, always allow for a break in the process. This allows folks to collect their thoughts ad marshal arguments or information to support their position on topics they feel need discussion.
The advertisers used to call it the "pause that refreshes". I call it the pause that enriches.
References
Goldman, Daniel. Emotional Intelligence Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam. 1994.