Emotional intelligence. It’s more than just a buzzword. It’s the ability to manage your own emotions and recognize the emotional states of others.

Individuals with high emotional intelligence often have certain behaviors that make them stand out.

They’re empathetic, self-aware, and they adapt well to changing circumstances.

High emotional intelligence is a powerful tool in both personal and professional settings, and those who possess it often exhibit certain telltale signs.

In this article, we’re going to explore 8 behaviors that suggest someone might have high emotional intelligence.

1) They’re aware of their own emotions

Being emotionally intelligent starts with self-awareness.

It’s about understanding your own feelings and why you react the way you do. This doesn’t mean they have control over their emotions all the time, but they are definitely mindful of them.

People with high emotional intelligence are often introspective. They take time to analyze their emotions, identify what triggers them, and understand how they can impact their decisions and actions.

This level of self-awareness helps them to manage their reactions and navigate through life with a more balanced perspective. They’re not just reactive; they also proactively manage their emotional state.

In other words, they don’t let their emotions control them; they control their emotions.

And that’s a key sign of high emotional intelligence.

2) They empathize with others

Empathy is a cornerstone of emotional intelligence. It’s the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

People with high emotional intelligence don’t just understand their own emotions, they’re also tuned into the feelings of those around them.

For instance, I recall a time when a colleague of mine was going through a tough personal situation. She seemed distracted and not her usual self. Instead of ignoring this, I decided to approach her and check in.

I simply asked her if she was okay and let her know that I was there if she needed to talk. In that moment, she opened up about the difficulties she was facing.

This empathy allowed us to connect on a deeper level, and it also helped me better understand her perspective. I was then able to provide support in a way that was meaningful to her.

This is just one example of how empathy can play out in everyday life.

It’s about really listening to others and understanding their perspective. That’s what people with high emotional intelligence do.

3) They’re adaptable to change

Change is a constant in life. But while some people resist change, those with high emotional intelligence often embrace it.

They understand that adapting to new situations is a necessary part of growth and development. Instead of getting stressed or overwhelmed when things don’t go as planned, they adjust their sails and find a way to make the new situation work for them.

Studies have shown that adaptability is a key trait of emotionally intelligent people. In fact, research has found a strong link between emotional intelligence and the ability to successfully manage stress and adapt to change.

So, if you’re someone who can go with the flow and make the best out of any situation, chances are you have a high level of emotional intelligence.

4) They’re good listeners

Listening is more than just hearing words; it’s about understanding and interpreting the underlying emotions and intentions.

People with high emotional intelligence are typically great listeners. They don’t just passively absorb what’s being said; they actively engage, showing their interest through body language and follow-up questions.

They understand that effective communication is a two-way street – it’s not just about expressing yourself, but also about understanding others.

By paying attention to both what is being said and how it’s being communicated, they can get a better sense of the emotions and motivations of others.

This ability to listen deeply makes them excellent friends, colleagues, and leaders.

5) They practice self-regulation

Self-regulation is the ability to control or redirect disruptive impulses and moods. It’s about thinking before acting.

People with high emotional intelligence display this trait frequently. They are able to manage their emotions, particularly in stressful or difficult situations, rather than letting their emotions control their reactions.

This doesn’t mean they repress their feelings – they fully acknowledge them. But they don’t allow them to cloud their judgement or dictate their behavior.

They understand the importance of staying calm and collected, and they’re able to navigate through challenging situations with grace and poise.

This makes them reliable and trustworthy, even when things get tough.

6) They’re genuinely interested in others

Emotional intelligence often goes hand-in-hand with a genuine interest in other people. It’s not a calculated move or a strategy; it’s simply a natural curiosity about the people around them.

Those with high emotional intelligence sincerely enjoy learning about others.

Their conversations aren’t just surface-level; they delve deeper, showing genuine interest in the thoughts, experiences, and feelings of the person they’re talking to.

This heartfelt approach to relationships often means that those with high emotional intelligence have a strong network of friends and colleagues who respect and trust them.

7) They understand the power of gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful emotion. It can transform our outlook, improve our well-being, and deepen our relationships.

People with high emotional intelligence often have a strong sense of gratitude. They recognize the good in their lives and regularly express appreciation for it.

Rather than focusing on what’s wrong or what they lack, they choose to see what’s right and what they possess. This doesn’t mean they ignore their problems, but they don’t allow them to overshadow the good.

This attitude not only enhances their own mood and perspective, but it also positively impacts those around them, fostering a more positive environment overall.

8) They value relationships

At the heart of emotional intelligence is the ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships.

People with high emotional intelligence understand the importance of relationships in both their personal and professional lives. They invest time and energy in nurturing these connections, because they recognize that strong relationships are a cornerstone of a fulfilled life.

They’re not just focused on what they can get out of a relationship, but also on what they can contribute to it. They’re there for people in their times of need, and they celebrate their successes.

In essence, they understand that life is not just about individual achievements, but about the connections we make along the way.

And that’s what makes them truly emotionally intelligent.