EQ Starts with You

Like most things, I learned about emotional intelligence (EQ) awhile back (Thank you, Mr. Goleman!), and at that time I thought of a few ways I could apply it. So, I did. It worked.

But like most things, I didn't think of applying it to myself first. So, I didn't.

Good thing I had a coach like J. D. Murphy who both applies what he teaches to himself first and helps others apply it.

As established founders and family enterprise leaders, we sometimes discount what has worked for us by giving a recommendation based on what has worked for someone else. But, I've learned that this is not as authentic as it could be.

When we are coaching employees, starting with what has worked for us, even if we still struggle with it, can be helpful. It's at least authentic. It's at most vulnerable.

It's also the start of emotional intelligence in our executive communication. We need more examples of organization leaders walking a mile in the shoes of who we are communicating with.

ryan

Ryan Kauth

Ryan Kauth is a business coach, university lecturer, podcaster, fractional Chief of Staff, and business writer. He works with established founders and family enterprise owners on several things, including regular, authentic executive communication. He typically doesn't go the speed limit, and now he knows why.