Emotional Intelligence-My Mentor’s Loss and Grace
A 91-year old mentor of mine just lost his wife of 50+ years. I can’t imagine the depth of his grief and devastation. However, we spoke last evening and his interests remained less about himself and his circumstances than my family, my future, and when we might see one another again. He has continued to impress me as among the most emotionally intelligent humans I’ve ever met – and it didn’t waiver a bit, even when confronted with this. His example continues to spur my thinking, and so I’m hoping the brief introduction to him might spur yours as well.
Emotional intelligence is a topic we’ll soon be discussing in detail in the NCCL virtual meeting and Washington DC in the fall. It’s a topic we’ve explored multiple times in the NCCL community . It’s practiced in accordance with our culture and helps us build trust with between ourselves and those we work for (those we lead). It establishes the foundation that enables accountability to grow and thrive.
Emotional intelligence is often confused with being nice (in part, it is, but that’s not the real message), and so these articles I’m going to share may further confuse the story. I’d ask that you consider the difference between being nice and being human – it’s subtle, but important. So…without further ado – for your leadership development (and enjoyment).
http://www.forbes.com/sites/travisbradberry/2015/01/27/13-habits-of-exceptionally-likeable-people/2/
http://www8.gsb.columbia.edu/newsroom/newsn/3004?sourceid=execunetli012615
The second article focuses on negotiation. When you get right down to it…isn’t every leadership encounter a negotiation in some form or another?
We’ll see you all again soon.