Emotionally intelligent people don't burn out

Stress is unavoidable. That, however, does not mean that everybody must burn out. When we learn to use emotional intelligence and develop it further, both we and other people around us can avoid burnout.

You can't increase your emotional intelligence in a day or a week; a long-term effort is required. However, this should certainly not mean additional stress for you. What specifically should you do?

Illustration

Forget about overeating, alcohol or drugs. That will not protect you from burnout. On the other hand, consider the following emotional intelligence development techniques as highlighted on the Harvard Business Review website.

Stop stressing yourself

Watch out for a tendency towards perfectionism or a very strong desire to succeed. You would only unnecessarily stress yourself. Search for ways to put less pressure on yourself.

Admit your limits

Everybody has certain strengths and weaknesses. When you admit the areas you are not totally strong in and let more skilled or experienced people help you, you will get rid of a large amount of your stress.

Practice breathing and "mindfulness"

Deep and focused breathing helps us handle acute tension or anxiety. The meditation technique known as mindfulness also quickly relaxes the body and calms the mind. It is based on focusing attention on the current moment without at the same time assessing the given situation.

Reconsider your opinion

There is a difference between perceiving an event or situation as a problem that threatens you, or as a challenge you can handle. Changing your perspective is a very powerful factor for reducing stress and gaining motivation for further actions.

Look through the eyes of others

One of the most effective ways to prevent conflicts, or at least reduce their intensity, is listening to others and trying to understand things from their perspective. Concentrate on what others are trying to tell you. Stop acting defensively and you will gain more trust. Then, instead of a quarrel, a less stressful conversation will follow.

-kk-

Article source Harvard Business Review - flagship magazine of Harvard Business School
Read more articles from Harvard Business Review