Tell Me How It Really Is!
I thought it so it must be real!
Ever found yourself in a spot where things didn't go as planned? You had a heated argument with your spouse or significant other and suddenly the thought of "we’re never going to make it” crossed your mind. Or, at work, you missed a deadline, got some constructive feedback from your boss, and instantly thought, "I'm getting fired for sure!"
We've all been there, those moments when our thoughts and emotions seem to be running wild, not matching up with reality. That's where objectivity steps in. Objectivity is about seeing things as they truly are, without making sweeping generalizations or letting our emotions take over.
Enter the concept of Reality Testing, a valuable part of emotional intelligence. It's like a reality check for your emotions. Reality Testing is part of the Decision-Making aspect of Emotional Intelligence, found in the EQ-I 2.0 Model. It's all about having the capacity to stay objective and see things as they actually are. It involves recognizing those moments when your emotions or personal biases might be clouding your judgment. In simpler terms, it's like having a built-in truth detector.
Below are tips to help you implement Reality Testing into your life.
Self-awareness: Start by recognizing your own emotions and biases. Understand that your emotions can sometimes cloud your judgment and perception of reality.
Pause and reflect: When you encounter a situation or have a strong emotional reaction, take a moment to pause and reflect on what you're feeling and why. Ask yourself questions like, "What am I feeling right now?" and "Why am I feeling this way?
Question your assumptions: Identify any assumptions or beliefs you have about the situation or the people involved. Are these assumptions based on facts, or are they influenced by your emotions or past experiences?
Seek clarification: If you're unsure about something, don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification. Avoid making assumptions without verifying information.
Gather information: Collect as much information as possible to get a more accurate picture of the situation. This may involve talking to others involved, doing research, or seeking additional context.
Consider the source: Evaluate the credibility and reliability of the sources of information, including your own thoughts and feelings. Are they based on objective facts, or are they influenced by biases or preconceived notions?
So, the next time your thoughts start spiraling, remember to give Reality Testing a shot. It might just help you see things a bit more clearly and keep those runaway emotions in check.
🌟 #EmotionalIntelligence #RealityCheck #StayObjective
