What do you do if your emotional intelligence is hindering your career advancement in a global context?

1 Assess your EI strengths and weaknesses

The first step to improve your EI is to identify your current level of emotional awareness, regulation, expression, and empathy. You can use self-assessment tools, such as the Emotional and Social Competence Inventory (ESCI), or seek feedback from your colleagues, managers, or mentors. By understanding your EI strengths and weaknesses, you can focus on the areas that need improvement and set realistic and specific goals for your development.

2 Learn from other cultures

One of the best ways to enhance your EI is to expose yourself to different cultures and learn from their perspectives, values, and norms. You can do this by reading books, watching movies, listening to podcasts, or taking online courses that explore various aspects of intercultural communication and competence. You can also seek out opportunities to interact with people from different backgrounds, such as joining a local club, volunteering for a social cause, or attending a cultural event. By learning from other cultures, you can broaden your emotional vocabulary, increase your empathy, and reduce your biases and stereotypes.

3 Practice mindfulness and self-care

Working abroad can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if you face language barriers, cultural shocks, or isolation. To cope with these challenges, you need to practice mindfulness and self-care. Mindfulness is the ability to pay attention to the present moment, without judgment or distraction. You can practice mindfulness by meditating, breathing deeply, or journaling. Self-care is the act of taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. You can practice self-care by eating well, sleeping enough, exercising regularly, or doing something you enjoy. By practicing mindfulness and self-care, you can reduce your stress, improve your mood, and boost your resilience.

4 Seek feedback and support

Another way to improve your EI is to seek feedback and support from others who can help you grow and learn. You can ask for constructive criticism from your peers, supervisors, or clients, and use it to improve your performance and relationships. You can also seek support from your friends, family, or mentors, who can offer you emotional guidance and encouragement. By seeking feedback and support, you can gain new insights, perspectives, and skills, and build your confidence and self-esteem.

5 Celebrate your achievements and progress

Finally, you should celebrate your achievements and progress, no matter how big or small. Working abroad is not easy, and you should acknowledge your efforts and successes. You can celebrate by rewarding yourself, sharing your stories, or expressing your gratitude. By celebrating your achievements and progress, you can reinforce your positive emotions, motivate yourself, and inspire others.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?