I’ve led an “Emotional Intelligence” class a few times recently and it’s been full of surprises.
I market it with a little blurb that says something like, “This class introduces the key components of EQ and explores the ways that improved “soft skills” can impact relationships, stress levels, and overall well-being. You’ll leave with practical strategies that can be immediately applied to your personal and professional goals.” and that’s 100% what I prep for.
With that “practical strategies” goal in mind, I arrive with a carefully curated collection of informative articles, thoughtful quotes, and helpful “to-do” lists. That folder is heavy because it also carries my hopes for the class, my fears about what might go wrong, and the surprising weight of a dozen unlikely “what if?” scenarios that I always seem to pack.
But because I also arrive with a heartfelt message of “Know yourself well. The key to emotional intelligence is self-awareness.” and a healthy dose of vulnerability, I’m growing more and more comfortable with the discomfort of those weights and worries. I’ve found that if I want to talk about well-being and self-awareness and showing up authentically in your relationships, I need to be willing to talk about the messy parts… to admit that it’s not always easy.
The class begins with an exercise in identifying some values and traits and sharing why they resonate with you. The discussion unfolds with stories of grace, perseverance, and hope; we talk about positivity, growth, and strength. I learn just as much as I teach — probably even more — and that always feels good.
In the spirit of self-awareness, I unpack a lot of feelings after every session and ask myself:
- Did I “show up” with integrity and authenticity?
- Did I demonstrate vulnerability?
- Did I extend kindness and grace?
… and as long as I can confidently answer “yes” to those three questions, I consider it a win. I’m still likely to carry the weight of uncertainty to the next class, but it’s not quite so heavy when it’s filed neatly under “keeping it real.” Authenticity and well-being go hand-in-hand, for sure.
