The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
Reflecting on my life, I can trace the roots of my emotional intelligence back to a challenging time in my childhood—the divorce of my parents. Caught in the middle of their tumultuous split, I found myself becoming an emotional mediator. I strived to show both of them my love and support, so I became acutely attuned to their emotions, analyzing their reactions and offering assistance whenever possible. Ironically, while I excelled at deciphering others’ emotions, I learned to suppress my own as a means of self-preservation.
Transitioning into my leadership role, I realized that this emotional guardedness was hindering my progress. I understood that to truly connect with my team, I needed to confront my greatest fear: vulnerability. I discovered that storytelling was a powerful tool in showcasing both emotional intelligence and vulnerability. It enabled my team to comprehend not just the what, but the why behind our actions. More importantly, it allowed them to see me as a genuine individual, flaws and challenges included.
Opening up as a Leader
As I became more open, I witnessed a transformation within my team. Remarkable leaders emerged, unafraid to express their uncertainties and confront them head-on. They provided unwavering support to one another and were fully committed to the team. When it comes to nurturing emotional intelligence, I always emphasize starting with curiosity. Prior to reacting or passing judgment, ask plenty of questions and strive to view situations from various perspectives.
Emotional intelligence is not merely a desirable soft skill—it is essential for leadership success. I have witnessed firsthand the impact it can have. When individuals feel secure enough to be candid about their challenges and ambitious enough to overcome them, that is when true magic transpires.
While technical expertise is important, emotional intelligence is the key determinant of leadership success. It involves creating an environment where vulnerability is perceived as strength, personal narratives serve as potent teaching tools, and confronting fears collectively paves the way for remarkable achievements. This style of leadership fosters teams that are not only successful but truly unforgettable.
This article was originally featured in the January 2025 edition of SUCCESS+ digital magazine.
Image courtesy of Amy Somerville