Who controls you? Executives who are unable to manage their emotions indirectly allow external circumstances to dictate their behaviours. As a leader, self-control and self-awareness are critical to performing managerial responsibilities effectively.

Ansie Lofthouse talks about Emotional Intelligence in the modern world of work. Emotional Intelligence is the ability “to understand and manage the needs, emotions and motivations of both yourself and others”, says Lofthouse. This concept has been internationally accepted and practiced for roughly 10 - 12 years, but while most leaders are familiar with the idea many lack the knowledge and training to apply it.

Senior managers and executives underestimate the impact of their behaviour towards others whether employees or colleagues, says Ansie.

Common indicators of leaders, who lack Emotional Intelligence, include an inability to motivate self or others, failure to develop relationships with others or achieve goals and difficulty in decision-making.

According to Lofthouse, “Emotional Intelligence changes your relationships, creates self-awareness and helps you tap into your own personal power.”

The level of Emotional Intelligenceis particularly poor amongst, asserts Lofthouse. This marked lack of understanding amongst local executives has stunted leadership growth in business.

However the concept is being heartily embraced as perceptions about Emotional Intelligence as a soft skill is beginning to change. According to Lofthouse, managers who have attended the course are discovering that Emotional Intelligence is a powerful skill to possess. “The programme is an eye-opener to leaders”.

As one participant stated, “The programme has really made a difference inhow I perceive things. It really is exceptional! With practice I will be a better person and a better manager.” – Human Resources Manager, Neotel.

Emotional Intelligence brings awareness about the importance of your emotions and subsequent behaviour and enables you to explore and understandthose facets.The slogan ‘live life from the inside out’ describes the heart of the teachings, which centre on managing self as opposed to managing situations or external environments.

One of the techniques Lofthouse presents during the programme is a focus on breathing. “On a physical level, breathing is great calming technique”. It is extremely difficult to make sound business decisions when you are under stress. The breathing technique is a practical tool that can be used during high-pressure moments to induce a sense of calmness.

Visualisation is used to highlight self-awareness during the programme. This is the key to attaining personal mastery and developing emotional intelligence. During this exercise participants are asked to close their eyes and focus their thoughts internally.This enables them to identify their emotions and the impact that it has on their behaviour.

The level of involvement during sessions and the encouraging reports after the course is indicative of the value these techniques bring to the lives of participants, both at work and home.

“I wish all the staff irrespective of levels could be exposed to this programme as it will change a lot in the organisation behaviour and culture.” – Sales and customer service manager, Nedbank.

Ansie Lofthous uses her 27 years of experience in training and development to present the Advanced Personal Mastery & Emotional Intelligence (EQ) programme hosted by Maurice Kerrigan Africa.

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