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Intersection between Intelligence and Kindness

Go figure kindness and intelligence are interrelated! Yep. What do you think?

Share how you will show kindness this week and we will send you a code for a free leadership planner!

According to Alexandra Blogier’s article, kindness is the simple trait of people with high intelligence. This idea, attributed to Russian author Leo Tolstoy, suggests that intelligent individuals discover and value kindness in others, enriching the world through their compassionate actions. Emotional intelligence, which includes self-awareness, self-management, empathy, and relationship-building, is rooted in this fundamental trait. Practising empathy and approaching emotions with gentle curiosity are ways to develop emotional intelligence and enhance interpersonal relationships.



The critical takeaway from Alexandra Blogier’s article on emotional intelligence is that kindness is a fundamental trait of highly intelligent people. The article references a quote attributed to Leo Tolstoy, suggesting that intelligent people find kindness in others and enrich the world through it. This aligns with the idea that emotional intelligence encompasses traits like self-awareness, self-management, empathy, and relationship building, as psychologist Dr. Todd Helvig noted. Practising empathy, avoiding moral judgment of emotions, and approaching emotions with gentle curiosity are highlighted as ways to develop emotional intelligence and build better interpersonal relationships.

To increase the trait of kindness, which is closely tied to emotional intelligence, consider the following strategies:

Practice Empathy:

Listen Actively: Pay close attention to what others are saying without interrupting.

Put Yourself in Others’ Shoes: Try to understand situations from other people’s perspectives.

Validate Emotions: Acknowledge and accept others’ feelings, even if they differ from your own.

Cultivate Self-Awareness:

Reflect on Your Emotions: Regularly check in with yourself to understand your emotional state.

Identify Triggers: Recognise what situations or behaviours trigger certain emotions in you.

Mindfulness Practices: Engage in activities like meditation or journaling to enhance self-awareness.

Enhance Self-Management:

Regulate Your Emotions: Learn techniques to manage your emotional responses, such as deep breathing or counting to ten before reacting.

Set Goals: Establish personal goals for emotional growth and track your progress.

Stay Calm Under Pressure: Practice staying composed in stressful situations through relaxation techniques.

Build Strong Relationships:

Communicate Openly: Share your thoughts and feelings honestly with others.

Show Appreciation: Regularly express gratitude and appreciation for the people in your life.

Be Supportive: Offer help and support to others when they need it.

Practice Kindness Daily:

Perform Small Acts of Kindness: Engage in small, everyday acts of kindness, such as complimenting someone or helping a colleague.

Volunteer: Participate in community service or volunteer activities to help others.

Be Generous: Share your time, resources, and skills with those who need them.

Foster a Positive Mindset:

Focus on Positivity: Focus on the positive aspects of situations and people.

Avoid Judgment: Refrain from passing judgment on yourself and others; instead, practice understanding and acceptance.

Encourage Others: Offer words of encouragement and support to those around you.

By consistently practising these strategies, you can enhance your emotional intelligence and cultivate the trait of kindness, enriching your life and those around you.

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