How can you use feedback to improve your emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills?

One of the ways to assess our strengths and weaknesses is to look at how great conversations and relations are established and sustained. From there we can continue to bring those actions to the core of furthering current and future relationships. We then look at those relationships that did not and or are not turning out too well. From there, we can learn what may have caused the challenges and re-evaluate on what we can do better, that's if they are relationships we do want to work on. We are the source of everything.

To enhance emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, begin by recognizing strengths and weaknesses. Utilize self-assessments like the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i) or Interpersonal Skills Self-Assessment Tool (ISAT) to evaluate domains such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, social skills, and communication. Seeking feedback from colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or coaches provides valuable perspectives. Employ tools like the Situation-Behavior-Impact-Feedback (SBIF) model or the STAR (Situation-Task-Action-Result) method to structure feedback requests and responses, fostering a continuous process of improvement and development.

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, mindfulness-based techniques offer a fresh perspective for physicians seeking to enhance emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. Often pressed for time in demanding roles, physicians can still incorporate mindfulness into daily routines through 'micro-mindfulness' practices. These are brief yet potent exercises that can be as short as 30-60 seconds, fitting into the busiest of schedules. Try a 'mindful handwash', using the time taken to wash hands to notice the sensations of water, the process of cleaning, and the intention of moving to the next task with renewed focus. Such practices can help maintain empathy and interpersonal effectiveness with patients and colleagues throughout a shift.

Emotional intelligence is the result of deep self-awareness. Self-awareness is the result of deep self-inquiry. Deep self-inquiry is the result of questioning every aspect of one's life from decisions to thoughts to actions and everything in between. The more we delve into ourselves, the more we re able to see the connectedness of us to everything and everyone and therefore the more we are able to work better and well with others.

Emotional resilience is an unsung hero. Regularly tending to one's emotional reservoir is paramount. Burnout is real, and prevention is better than cure. Whether it's indulging in a hobby, practicing meditation, or simply taking a quiet walk—these moments of solitude and reflection recharge the spirit, equipping one to face the challenges of a new day. Nurturing oneself is the cornerstone of nurturing others.

Use feedback as a tool for growth by embracing it with openness and avoiding defensiveness. Reflect on emotional responses, adapt communication styles, manage expectations, and continuously seek opportunities for learning. Request specific feedback, translate it into actionable steps, and cultivate emotional resilience. This proactive and adaptable approach enhances emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.

EI is not a destination but a journey. The world of medicine is in constant flux. Similarly, one's emotional toolkit must evolve. Continuous learning, be it through literature, mindfulness practices, or engaging in discussions on emotional well-being, ensures that a physician remains grounded and adaptive. Growth, in all forms, ensures excellence.

Allow yourself to fall short, and use that as examples of what you can improve on. The language you speak as you are growing is very important. Compassionate language encourages and improves on intrinsic motivation. Any language that brings upon shame or guilt when speaking to oneself during the growth space, reduces likelihood or speed of growth, including retention of the lessons learnt. Be your own cheerleader and be okay with failing as an indicator to adjust to more effective ways of communicating with others and the self.

Prioritize self-awareness. Regularly reflect on your emotions, reactions, and triggers. Develop a keen understanding of your strengths and areas for improvement. Integrating self-awareness into the feedback loop enhances emotional intelligence and refines interpersonal skills more effectively.

EQ is pivotal, akin to clinical expertise. In the realm of healthcare, the atmosphere is charged with palpable emotions—fear, hope, relief, despair. A physician must master the art of navigating this emotional maze, ensuring that their medical decisions are both informed and empathetic. Consider a scenario where a patient is hesitant about a new treatment. A physician with a high EQ would not only present the facts but also address the underlying fears, ensuring the patient feels heard and understood. Empathy can be as healing as medicine itself.

We've all had experiences with physicians and other medical providers that are - eh-hum, less than great. When they are 45 minutes late and don't acknowledge it. Or they barely make eye contact. Or the interaction is so speedy that you better be ready with your ONE statement when they ask, "How are you today?" The physicians are in a flow within the office - the bottlenecks might not be their fault, but they're the face of the office and therefore, yes - it's up to the boss to acknowledge and fix it. Start with sitting down with the office team. They know where the bumps are, and probably know how to fix them.