Here's how you can develop self-awareness as part of emotional intelligence training.

2 Seek Feedback

Feedback from others can provide valuable perspectives on how you're perceived, which is often different from how you see yourself. Approach people you trust—friends, family, or colleagues—and ask for honest feedback about your behavior and emotional responses. Be open to what they say without becoming defensive. This external viewpoint can reveal blind spots in your self-perception and guide you toward areas where you can improve.

4 Set Goals

Self-awareness development benefits from clear, achievable goals. Identify specific aspects of your emotional responses you want to improve, like staying calm during stressful situations or expressing your feelings more clearly. Break these goals down into small, manageable steps, and monitor your progress. Celebrate your successes along the way to stay motivated and acknowledge the growth in your emotional intelligence.

5 Try New Experiences

Stepping outside your comfort zone by trying new experiences can be a catalyst for self-discovery. Whether it's learning a new skill, traveling, or meeting new people, these situations force you to adapt and respond in ways that can reveal new insights about yourself. Pay attention to how you feel and react in these scenarios to further understand your emotional landscape.

6 Mindful Practices

Mindfulness practices such as meditation can significantly improve self-awareness by helping you focus on the present moment and your internal state without judgment. Regular meditation encourages you to observe your thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them, which can lead to greater emotional balance and self-understanding. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference in developing a more mindful approach to your emotions.