07.01.21 The 2nd Practice for Developing Emotional Intelligence as You Wait Develop the Ability to Express Your Emotions and Needs Clearly and Responsibly

2. Develop the Ability to Express Your Emotions and Needs Clearly and Responsibly

Once you recognise your emotions, take responsibility for communicating them properly. In other words, develop communication skills that enable you to express your feelings in a way that can be understood by listeners. Refrain from blaming or accusing other people for the way you feel since ‘the ball is always in your court’ to choose which emotions to display how, where, and to who. Therefore, use statements such as, “I got anxious when you did not call last night,” to express your concerns, rather than “You made me feel anxious when you did not call last night". Such an approach helps to prevent misunderstandings. Practise active listening and seek clarification before responding to sensitive matters. In addition, learn to choose the appropriate time and setting for important or sensitive conversations so that you can express yourself more effectively and be understood by your listeners. Practise expressing your needs and emotions with clarity and respect.

Learn to communicate in a manner that promotes openness rather than defensiveness, as that will allow meaningful dialogue to take place. Proverbs 16:23 reminds us about the importance of thinking through our words before we communicate. It reads ( NKJV): “The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, And adds learning to his lips.”

As your communication improves, you relate more confidently and handle complex conversations with greater wisdom. As a result, your relationships become more authentic, people understand you better and your interactions become more grounded and constructive.