Emotional intelligence profoundly impacts the quality of our relationships and explains how the timing of our actions and responses can make all the difference. Our focus must be on our relationships with an awareness of the world around us.
The Power of Timing in Communication: Strengthening Relationships
Every day, we manage an interplay of emotions and relationship timing where connections are made and tested in the blink of an eye. Understanding the art of emotional intelligence and timing can be the key to mastering the delicate dance of human interaction. In this blog, we will uncover emotional intelligence's extreme impact on our relationships and how the flawless timing of our actions and responses can make all the difference.
Social Awareness Improves Our Relationships
Social awareness is centred on our ability to recognize and understand the emotions of others to enhance relationships. We develop a more accurate and practical view of our relationships and surroundings by shifting our focus from inward to outward.
By carefully observing the actions of others in social situations, we improve our awareness, resolution, and focus. If, for example, we approach a colleague, friend or family member and begin to speak without first taking stock of the situation, we may come across as insensitive and thoughtless. Conversely, if we take the time, perhaps a minute or so, to assess the current situation before we speak, the most effective approach may be empathy and understanding. Timing is everything!
Timing Plays A Crucial Role In Every Social Interaction
We must use our awareness, peripheral vision, and inner barometer to determine when it’s prudent to quickly shift our attention away from ourselves and onto the needs of others. Only when we use all five senses to absorb what’s happening with the relationships around us can we realize the role timing plays in our actions.
When present, we can paint a clear mental picture of what’s in front of our eyes and then use our emotional intelligence to interact with others effectively. This act allows us to build relationships appropriately and sensitively.
The Timing Debate: Is It Luck Or Skill?
Some believe that good timing is fate, luck, or even grace. Timing affects almost everything we do in life, so developing awareness is vital (a.k.a. the timing “sweet spot”). The old saying, “There is a right place and time for everything” is true.
As you strengthen your social awareness, a crucial emotional intelligence competency, it's imperative to understand how to communicate with others and consider when, where, and how to start the conversation.
Marshall Connects offers Emotional Intelligence Assessments and Coaching to enhance skill development in all areas, including social awareness strategies. If you want to improve your emotional intelligence, consider taking a self-assessment to provide a personal analysis of your perception of your behaviour. Also, read my book, The Power of Emotion, as it is a helpful resource.
This article was originally published on July 21, 2018, and has been updated (September 2023).
More Motivational Reads Here »
How Emotionally Intelligent Are You?
Sign up for Linda’s monthly tips to build your Emotional Intelligence and reduce Emotional Hijacking!
