Here's how you can enhance your problem-solving skills by leveraging emotional intelligence.

A key tool is taking an emotional intelligence assessment. I use the Multidimensional Intelligence IQ assessment (MEIQ - R10) from PsychTests, Inc. It gives an overall score plus 5 factors, divided into 31 scales: ● Emotional Competencies ● Social Competencies ● Drive ● Stress Management ● Self-Regard The two culprits that I see quite often with my clients, whether in one-on-one coaching or within emotional intelligence workshops are: (1) Lack of comfort with expressing one's true emotions, especially anger and sadness, and (2) Lack of assertiveness, which is often confused with aggressiveness. If you can master these two limitations, your problem-solving skills within your team and your personal relationships will drastically improve.

Self-awareness: Recognize your own emotions, strengths, and limitations when approaching problem-solving situations. Understand how your emotions influence your decision-making process.

As a researcher, I've noticed emotional intelligence is like a toolbox for tackling problems. Imagine you're stuck fixing your bike – feeling frustrated won't loosen the bolts (self-awareness). But if you stay calm and take a breath (self-management), you can figure out what tool you need (social awareness) and use it smoothly (relationship management). By understanding your own emotions and those around you, you can approach problems with a clear head and work together to find the best solution.

Empathy: Develop empathy towards others by considering their perspectives, feelings, and motivations when addressing problems collaboratively. This helps build stronger relationships and fosters a supportive problem-solving environment.

Por mi experiencia, lo que suelo ver es que cuando se tiene empatía con alguien se asume como "entender lo que sientes". Sin embargo, en mi opinión, y tal como lo aplico cuando tengo que asesorar a alguien, la empatia se trata mas de "siento lo mismo que tu, y te acompa?o en este sentimiento". No solo hay que ponerse en la piel de la otra persona, hay que sentir lo que el otro siente, solo asi podemos ponernos en su lugar. Para esto, un ejercicio muy útil es visualizar la misma circunstancia que está viviendo la otra persona, imaginar que te pasa a ti. El cerebro humano no distingue una situación real de una imaginada, reacciona igual. Así podemos simular estos sentimientos.

In my studies on teamwork, I've noticed something cool: the best problem-solving groups aren't just brainstorms of shouting ideas. They're like well-oiled machines, where everyone clicks. Empathy, like a secret handshake, is the key. By seeing things from another's viewpoint, you can build bridges, not walls. Imagine a frustrated teammate stuck on a step. Empathy lets you see their struggle and offer a helping hand, not just bark orders. Suddenly, "stuck" becomes "solved together," and everyone feels valued. That's the magic of empathy in action!

You can't be an effective problem solver if you are clouded by complex emotions. The key to emotional clarity is self-reflection. It's essential to check in with yourself during times of peaceful and quiet reflection in order to accurately assess your emotional state. Bring yourself into a rational place where you are a calm observer of your emotions. Learn how to keep flaring emotions in check and use them as information to inform your self-evaluation. It's critical to step outside of chaotic emotions before you attempt to resolve anything. Emotions are messengers. We must learn to listen to them, learn what they are trying to tell us about ourselves and quell any tumult before proceeding in work or life responses.

Collaboration: Cultivate strong interpersonal skills and collaborative relationships with colleagues to leverage diverse perspectives and talents in problem-solving efforts. Foster a culture of trust, respect, and open communication to encourage teamwork and innovation.

Active listening: Practice active listening skills to fully understand the concerns and perspectives of others involved in the problem-solving process. Pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues to gather relevant information and insights. Conflict resolution: Use emotional intelligence to navigate conflicts constructively by staying calm, empathizing with all parties involved, and seeking mutually beneficial solutions. Focus on finding common ground and fostering open communication. By integrating emotional intelligence into your problem-solving approach, you can better understand yourself and others, navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, and achieve more effective and sustainable solutions.