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Many training programs that teach soft skills use technical methodology. This approach teaches leadership skills, like empathy, by explaining the concepts logically. However, psychological research shows that this approach fails to truly impact participants.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) uses the part of the brain associated with feelings, impulses and drives. EQ training needs to engage this part of the brain, called the limbic system, rather than the neocortex, the part of the brain responsible for analysis and logic.

Emotional intelligence - or EQ - means understanding emotions and expressing them effectively and appropriately. The SMART model of EQ highlights the key factors: 

• Self awareness.
• Managing emotions and impulses.
• Attitude of optimism.
• Reading the emotions of others.
• Teaming up with others.

There’s been some discussion in the press recently about the use of positive thinking and affirmation statements being over-hyped.

In essence, there’s nothing wrong with positive thinking or reading affirmations. Either technique can indeed inspire or motivate people and make them feel good. So what's wrong with this?

Resilience is like a rubber band that when stretched bounces back to its original shape. If you are resilient, you handle problems better – while others are frozen by stress, you are able to take control. You are proactive and future focussed, because negativity doesn’t overwhelm you.