Catabolic vs Anabolic Leadership: The Impact of Emotional Intelligence
Welcome back! In our final article installment comparing catabolic versus anabolic leaders, we explore how emotional intelligence affects leadership skills.
Our comparison between these two types of leaders continues below with a deep dive into:
How aware they are of their own and others’ emotions
How they express their emotions
How they manage or control them in the work environment
The impact all this has on their leadership
In case you missed the other articles in the series, read them here:
Emotions in the Workplace: Yes or No?
Emotions in the workplace…do you think they belong there?
In leadership, the answer to that question depends on who you ask.
Catabolic leaders are likely to say that emotions and the workplace do not mix.
Anabolic leaders have a different perspective, because they know that emotions can’t be left out of the office.
In fact, awareness, expression, and management of emotions are three of the main aspects of emotional intelligence.
In the Energy Leadership Development System™, emotional intelligence is defined as the ability to distinguish, understand, and have an awareness of how thoughts and feelings connect with outward displays and behaviors, as well as the ability to manage and express appropriate emotions and help others do the same.
As we explore these components of EI, it’s easy to see how they show up differently in catabolic and anabolic leaders.
The Effects of Being Aware of Emotions
Catabolic Leaders are often unaware of their own emotions - and of other people’s feelings as well. Because they’re also unaware of the effect they have on others, the results ripple outward. Their teams tend to feel unheard and unappreciated.
Anabolic Leaders, in contrast, are aware of their own and other’s emotions. They can also take a step back and recognize that their emotions are not automatic (emotions arise from interpretations).
They go deeper, seeking clues in their emotions. They ask questions such as: “Why did I have this response? What can I learn from this?” Or even “How could my words and actions be interpreted that would cause someone to react negatively?”
Expressing Emotions in the Workplace
Catabolic leaders believe that expressing emotions should not be done in the workplace. They don’t want others to see their emotions - and they don’t want to deal with the emotions of others either.
When they do express feelings, they often show them inappropriately, subtly (like eye rolling) or more overt (yelling). It’s pretty clear how limiting these beliefs and behaviors are – and the negative consequences that can result.
Anabolic leaders see things quite differently. They understand that emotions are a part of each of us and that they can’t simply be “turned off” at will.
They know all about the right “time and place” – which enables them to express their emotions authentically at the appropriate times. By sharing, acknowledging, and validating, they cultivate an environment where their co-workers and staff feel valued and understood.
Management of Emotions in Leadership
Catabolic leaders find it difficult to manage their own emotions. Therefore, the people around them don’t look to them in times of crisis for guidance and support. They tend to be frustrated, angry, and resentful - and this is apparent to everyone.
Anabolic leaders respond, rather than react. This means that they are able to manage their own moods effectively. Even in stressful circumstances, they can control their own emotions. They can also inspire other people to shift to more positive moods.
Unsurprisingly, their overall calm attitude encourages a positive work environment.
Emotional Intelligence Impacts Your Leadership
Emotional intelligence is directly linked to interpersonal effectiveness: the higher your emotional intelligence, the more effective leader and communicator you will be – and the greater impact you can have.
In the dynamics of today’s fast-paced, challenging business environment, emotional intelligence is more important than ever. Wouldn’t you agree?
If you are interested in learning more about EI and how to elevate your skills, let’s chat! I offer live, in-person and online programs to help you and your team.
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