In our blog series Playing the Game we randomly introduce one of our 52 development cards on a regular basis. The development cards are key components of the book Playing the Game of Life: The Art of Success or Failure which is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and this website. To learn more, click here. Today's card is the Ace of Hearts - Emotional Intelligence.What is the Ace of Hearts all about? Each of us has an individual identity, and we base this identity, at least in part, on what we value and what's important to us, fueling our emotions. To play the Ace of Hearts (Emotional Intelligence, EQ) consistently, players need to be able to recognize, understand, manage and use the emotions of self and others to guide thinking, decision making and actions. When used in positive ways, this card can help strengthen relationships, expand influence, make better decisions, manage stressful situations, communicate effectively, and minimize disagreements. Most successful people around the world have a high EQ with EQ being just as important as IQ, if not more. To play the Ace of Hearts as a true professional, you need to have sustained excellence with the following 12 success criteria. Understanding and managing own emotions, feelings and behaviorUnderstanding strengths, weaknesses and limitations for self, and comfortable sharing this with others Having a keen awareness of self with regard to position, time, place and relationshipsActively pursuing and welcoming feedback from others Reading situations quickly and not being surprised by pending disagreements or issuesUnderstanding how decisions and actions impact others Taking a genuine interest in others, understanding and valuing their unique differencesBeing patient and calm, using active listening techniques Adapting communication and interpersonal style based on the wants and needs of othersSeeking to understand viewpoints and perspectives of others, not to agree or disagree Being receptive to the thoughts, ideas, and feelings of othersFinding common ground with others by understanding their wants, needs and preferencesDo you and others see the Ace of Hearts as one of your stronger or weaker cards? Can you play the Ace of Hearts when you need it? Can you play it consistently? The strength of the card is based on the strength of each success criteria above. To learn how to play the Ace of Hearts consistently, purchase a copy of Playing the Game of Life, request a personalized Coaching Feedback Report, or contact clientservices@tms-hr.com to schedule a Free Live Group Workshop. Some restrictions apply. To learn more visit Strengthening Emotional Intelligence, Build Stronger Relationships, Become a Better Leader, Coaching Series - Personal Effectiveness, and OnDemand Coaching.Stay tuned for the Nine of Clubs - Taking Charge in March.
