Emotional Intelligence Skills Chapter : 3 My Financial Career by Stephen Leacock Proverb on Emotional intelligence Skills

 

Proverb on Emotional intelligence Skills 

1. Read the following proverbs from various countries which emphasise the import of emotional intelligence. Can you add a few more proverbs from your mother tor or any other language? Which proverb does you like the most? Why? Share your y with the class.

a. Be civil to all; serviceable to many; familiar with few; friend to one; enemy to none.

The statement "Be civil to all; serviceable to many; familiar with few; friend to one; enemy to none" is a guideline for how to navigate social and interpersonal relationships. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced and respectful approach to people:

 

Be Civil to All: Treat everyone you encounter with courtesy and respect. Being civil means showing basic politeness and kindness to all individuals, regardless of their background or status.

Serviceable to Many: Be willing to help and assist others whenever possible. Serviceability implies a readiness to lend a hand or offer support to those in need, contributing positively to the community.

Familiar with Few: While it's essential to be polite to everyone, it's not necessary or practical to form close relationships with everyone you meet. Being familiar with a select few implies maintaining deeper, more personal connections with a limited circle of friends or acquaintances.

Friend to One: This suggests having a true, close friendship with at least one person. While it's not feasible to be close friends with everyone, having a strong and genuine connection with one individual can be deeply fulfilling.

Enemy to None: Strive to avoid hostility, conflict, and enmity. It encourages peaceful coexistence and resolving differences through communication and understanding rather than animosity.

This statement encourages a well-rounded and considerate approach to human interactions, promoting kindness, helpfulness, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships while advocating for peaceful and respectful coexistence with others.

b. Do unto others as you would wish to be done unto you.

The statement "Do unto others as you would wish to be done unto you" is often referred to as the Golden Rule, and it's a fundamental principle of ethical behavior found in various cultures and religions worldwide. The essence of this rule is treating others with the same kindness, respect, and consideration that you would want to receive from them.

This principle encourages empathy and perspective-taking, prompting individuals to consider how their actions might impact others and to act in a way that promotes fairness, compassion, and positive interpersonal relationships. It is a moral guideline that promotes treating others with fairness and dignity, fostering a sense of shared humanity and respect for one another.

In essence, the Golden Rule serves as a universal moral compass, guiding individuals to make ethical choices and promote harmonious interactions in their personal and social lives. It's a reminder of the importance of empathy and the positive impact that treating others with kindness and understanding can have on society as a whole.

c. Faults are thick when love is thin.

The statement "Faults are thick when love is thin" suggests that when love and affection in a relationship are lacking or diminished, it becomes easier to notice and magnify each other's flaws and shortcomings. In other words, when the emotional connection between individuals weakens, they may become more critical and less forgiving of each other's mistakes or imperfections.

This statement underscores the idea that a strong and genuine bond of love can act as a buffer against the negative aspects of a relationship. When love is abundant, individuals are often more willing to overlook minor faults and focus on the positive qualities of their loved ones. Conversely, when love wanes or becomes strained, minor issues can become major sources of conflict and tension.

In essence, "Faults are thick when love is thin" serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and maintaining love and affection in relationships. It highlights how the quality of the emotional connection can influence the way individuals perceive and respond to each other's imperfections.

d. People who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

The proverb "People who live in glass houses should not throw stones" serves as a cautionary reminder about the importance of self-awareness, humility, and refraining from criticizing or judging others when one is not without fault themselves. It conveys several key messages:

Self-Reflection: This proverb encourages individuals to reflect on their own imperfections and recognize that they are not immune to making mistakes or having their own flaws and vulnerabilities.

·         Avoiding Hypocrisy: It warns against being hypocritical by pointing out the shortcomings of others while ignoring or denying one's own faults. Hypocrisy can damage one's credibility and relationships.

·         Practicing Empathy: It promotes empathy and understanding toward others, as it reminds us that everyone has their own challenges and imperfections. Instead of being judgmental, it encourages a more compassionate perspective.

·         Responsibility: It underscores the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and behavior before passing judgment on others. It suggests that individuals should address their own issues before criticizing or blaming others.

Overall, this proverb encourages individuals to be mindful of their own conduct and to refrain from harshly judging or condemning others. It promotes a sense of humility and empathy, fostering more positive and understanding interactions with others.

e. If you know what hurts yourself, you know what hurts others

The statement "If you know what hurts yourself, you know what hurts others" conveys the idea that self-awareness and empathy go hand in hand. It suggests that by understanding your own vulnerabilities, sensitivities, and sources of pain, you can better relate to and empathize with the experiences and emotions of others.

This statement carries several important messages:

Empathy: It emphasizes the importance of empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. When you recognize what causes you pain or discomfort, you become more attuned to similar emotions in others.

Self-Reflection: It encourages self-reflection and introspection to gain insight into your own emotions and sensitivities. This self-awareness can then be applied to understanding the feelings of those around you.

Compassion: It promotes a sense of compassion, as it suggests that acknowledging your own vulnerabilities can lead to a greater capacity to show kindness and support to others who may be experiencing similar challenges.

Effective Communication: Knowing what hurts yourself can improve communication, as you are better equipped to express your own feelings and relate to the emotions expressed by others.

In essence, this statement underscores the interconnectedness of human experiences and emotions. It encourages individuals to use their self-awareness as a foundation for empathy and compassion, fostering more meaningful and supportive relationships with others.

f. A soft answer turns away anger.

The proverb "A soft answer turns away anger" conveys the idea that responding to anger or conflict with a calm, gentle, and non-confrontational manner can de-escalate the situation and help resolve issues more effectively. It emphasizes several key principles:

Emotional Intelligence: Responding softly demonstrates emotional intelligence, the ability to recognize and manage one's own emotions and those of others. It shows that you can control your own reactions even in tense situations.

 

Conflict Resolution: Using a soft and measured response can defuse conflicts and prevent them from escalating into more significant disputes. It creates an atmosphere of openness and receptivity, making it easier to find common ground and reach resolutions.

Respect: Responding with a soft answer shows respect for the other person's feelings and perspective, even if you disagree. It acknowledges their emotions and validates their right to express them.

Effective Communication: A soft response promotes effective communication by encouraging a more constructive and cooperative dialogue. It allows both parties to express themselves without fear of aggression or hostility.

Maintaining Relationships: Soft responses help maintain and strengthen relationships, as they prevent unnecessary damage to the connection between individuals. It fosters an environment where conflicts can be resolved without causing lasting harm.

In summary, "A soft answer turns away anger" underscores the power of diplomacy, patience, and emotional control in dealing with confrontations or disagreements. It advocates for a peaceful and respectful approach to communication and conflict resolution, leading to more positive outcomes in interpersonal interactions.

g. Hate destroys the one who hates more than the one who is hated.

he statement "Hate destroys the one who hates more than the one who is hated" conveys a profound truth about the corrosive nature of hatred and its detrimental impact on the person who harbors it. Here are some key points that this statement emphasizes:

Self-Destruction: Hatred consumes the individual who holds it, often leading to negative emotional and psychological consequences. It can manifest as anger, bitterness, resentment, and even obsession, all of which can have harmful effects on one's mental and emotional well-being.

Negative Energy: Hatred is a powerful and destructive emotion that generates negative energy. This negative energy can manifest physically, contributing to stress, anxiety, and even physical health problems.

Impaired Judgment: Hatred can cloud judgment and impair rational thinking. It can lead to impulsive and destructive behavior that ultimately harms the individual more than the target of their hatred.

Isolation: Hatred can lead to isolation and a breakdown in social relationships. Friends and loved ones may distance themselves from someone consumed by hatred, leading to further loneliness and isolation.

Focus on the Negative: Hatred often consumes one's thoughts and emotions, making it difficult to find joy or positivity in life. It perpetuates a cycle of negativity.

Loss of Empathy: Hatred can erode empathy and compassion, making it difficult for individuals to connect with others on a deeper level. This can lead to further isolation and emotional detachment.

In essence, this statement serves as a powerful reminder that holding onto hatred ultimately harms the person who hates more than it does the object of their hatred. It encourages individuals to seek healthier ways of dealing with negative emotions and conflicts, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness, understanding, and emotional well-being.

h. Anger is a bad adviser.

The statement "Anger is a bad adviser" highlights the negative and detrimental consequences of allowing anger to guide one's actions and decisions. Here are some key points that this statement conveys:

Impulsive Behavior: Anger often leads to impulsive and rash decisions. When individuals act out of anger, they may not think through the consequences of their actions, which can result in regrettable outcomes.

Poor Judgment: Anger can cloud judgment and impair one's ability to make rational and reasoned decisions. It can lead to biased thinking and the inability to see a situation clearly.

Destructive Actions: Angry reactions can lead to destructive behavior, including physical violence, hurtful words, and damaged relationships. Such actions can have long-lasting and irreversible consequences.

Regret: After the intensity of anger subsides, individuals often experience regret for their actions and words. This can lead to guilt and further emotional turmoil.

Communication Breakdown: Anger can hinder effective communication. When individuals are angry, they may struggle to express themselves calmly and listen to others, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Health Impacts: Prolonged or intense anger can have detrimental effects on one's physical and mental health, contributing to stress, anxiety, and other health issues.

In essence, "Anger is a bad adviser" serves as a cautionary reminder of the negative consequences of allowing anger to dictate one's actions and decisions. It encourages individuals to practice emotional regulation, seek constructive ways to address anger, and make decisions based on reason and thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive reactions.

i. Where there is a will there is a way.

In the fertile soil of determination, the seeds of possibility take root. Where there is a will, a path unfurls, winding through the thickest forests of challenge, climbing the steepest cliffs of adversity, and bridging the widest chasms of doubt. It is a beacon of hope that pierces the darkest nights of despair, a compass that guides us through the labyrinth of obstacles, and a flame that ignites the spirit with unwavering purpose.

With the will as our compass, we become architects of our own destiny, sculpting our dreams into reality. It is the relentless wind beneath our wings, propelling us toward the distant horizons of ambition. Through sweat and sacrifice, through trial and tribulation, we forge the way forward, discovering hidden passages and secret chambers of resilience within ourselves.

Where there is a will, the impossible becomes an invitation, the insurmountable transforms into a challenge, and the unattainable beckons as a promise. It is the song of determination that echoes in the valleys of doubt, reminding us that with our will as our guide, we can navigate the labyrinth of life and carve our own path to success.

j. Good people think about the feelings of their animals.

In the heart of those who hold kindness as their compass, a silent symphony of empathy plays for their animal companions. Good people, with every step they take, dance to the rhythm of their pets' emotions, conducting a harmonious relationship that transcends mere ownership.

In the tapestry of their lives, these individuals weave threads of care and understanding, crafting a sanctuary where furry friends find solace and affection. They are the architects of cozy cat nooks, the composers of joyful doggie adventures, and the choreographers of gentle petting sessions that speak volumes without words.

With every woof, meow, or chirp, good people listen to the stories their animal companions share, deciphering the intricate language of tail wags, purrs, and feather flutters. They embrace the responsibility of guardianship, ensuring that the needs of their animal friends are met with devotion and unwavering commitment.

In their world, empathy is not a mere sentiment but a way of life, a commitment to nurturing the emotional well-being of their pets. Good people know that the happiness of their animal friends mirrors their own, and in this beautiful dance of compassion, both humans and animals find a deep and abiding connection that transcends words and warms the heart.

2 Choose the proverb which best summaries the article and explain your choice class.

The proverb "A soft answer turns away anger" is most fitting to the abstract and themes presented in Stephen Leacock's humorous story "My Financial Career." In the story, the protagonist's anxiety and nervousness escalate as he navigates the bank, interacts with bank staff, and tries to open an account. While the story is comical, it showcases how misunderstandings and tensions arise due to the protagonist's inability to respond calmly and assertively to the bank staff's actions and questions.

 

If the protagonist had responded with a soft answer, maintaining composure and clear communication, the misunderstandings and anxiety-inducing situations might have been avoided or resolved more smoothly. The story humorously illustrates how a soft and measured response can prevent conflicts and contribute to a more positive and effective interaction.

 

While other proverbs discussed earlier may apply to broader themes of responsibility, empathy, and personal growth, "A soft answer turns away anger" directly relates to the protagonist's humorous misadventures in the bank and how a different approach to communication could have altered the outcome.

1.      The proverbs in the previous exercise emphasise the importance of intelligence. Write a paragraph of 150 words on the importance of self-awareness how it helps us in our relationships with ourselves, our family and our collect may give examples from. Everyday life or from spiritual and philosophical around the world.

 

Self-awareness is a fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence that holds immense importance in our relationships, both with ourselves and with others. It is the capacity to understand one's own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. This self-knowledge empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of human interactions with greater empathy and authenticity.

 

In our relationship with ourselves, self-awareness acts as a mirror that reflects our true selves. It helps us recognize our values, desires, and aspirations, enabling us to set meaningful goals and make choices aligned with our authentic selves. Through self-awareness, we can identify areas of personal growth, address emotional wounds, and develop a sense of inner peace.

 

Within our families, self-awareness fosters healthier dynamics. When family members possess self-awareness, they are better equipped to manage conflicts constructively and communicate effectively. For instance, a parent who understands their triggers and reactions can respond to their children's needs with patience and empathy, creating a nurturing environment.

 

In collective settings, self-awareness contributes to harmonious relationships among group members. Whether in the workplace or within communities, individuals who practice self-awareness enhance teamwork, resolve conflicts, and promote inclusivity. By acknowledging their biases and emotions, they can engage in more open and productive discussions.

 

Examples from spiritual and philosophical teachings worldwide emphasize the importance of self-awareness. Practices such as meditation and mindfulness encourage introspection, leading to greater self-understanding and compassion for others. Wisdom traditions often teach that knowing oneself is the key to understanding the interconnectedness of all beings.

 

In conclusion, self-awareness serves as a foundation for healthy relationships with us, our families, and our collectives. It cultivates empathy, emotional intelligence, and authenticity, enabling us to navigate life's complexities with grace and harmony.