The last time we talked about Emotional Intelligence, we talked about the need for a leader to have a strong emotional self-awareness, especially about being self-aware of how their emotions affect others in the workplace. Well closely tied to this need for self-awareness, Is the need to control your emotions in your interactions with your subordinates, peers, and even your bosses. It does one little good to be self-aware of your emotions if you have little control over them.

NOTHING will strip you of your right to authentic or inspirational leadership quicker than your loss of self-control. One of the hallmarks of great leaders is their ability to stay ‘cool, calm, and collected’ even in the worst circumstance when the world seems to be coming apart around them. Leading during times of great crises requires a great deal of self-control. Improving our self-control is a vital part of improving our emotional intelligence.