From a young age, we are taught how to read, write, do arithmetic, and ride a bike. However, many of us are not explicitly taught the critical skills of emotional intelligence – the ability to understand, acknowledge, and respond to our own and others’ emotions. And yet, without the ability to understand and regulate our own emotions, or to understand the emotional experiences of others, we are limited in our ability to achieve our goals. Emotional intelligence is integral to our ability to regulate our emotions, work effectively or communicate with others, and overcome challenges. In the workplace, emotional intelligence is essential to optimizing productivity, workplace cohesion and culture, and problem-solving. We need emotional intelligence to promote our wellness intelligence. 

Christina’s talk provides a foundational overview of emotional intelligence, including what it is, the many ways it shows up in our lives (both at work and at home), and why it is so important. Christina also provides knowledge and tools that enable audience members to cultivate their own emotional intelligence. Specifically, she will equip attendees with strategies to observe and describe their own and others’ emotional experiences, regulate their emotions in the moment, and effectively validate and de-escalate another person’s emotions. Christina’s talk provides the vital, foundational information to build emotional intelligence, which promotes wellbeing and efficacy within our lives.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand what emotional intelligence is and be able to describe it to others 
• Be knowledgeable about why emotional intelligence is important in your personal and work life
• Have strategies to enhance your emotional intelligence
• Be able to effectively respond to others’ emotions