Emotional Intelligence and Decision Making

Good decision-making is vital in the workplace. Leaders must evaluate all the facts when making decisions and understand the impact that their decisions will have on the business and other people. Higher emotional intelligence leads to better decision-making.In fact, when people doubted the relevance of human resources in the light of AI.ML etc. JackMa said that as long as we continue to invest in EI, Critical & Creative Thinking nothing to worry. But, sometimes we get carried away by emotions, which might impact our decision making. Let’s look at one instance where the simple rule of decision making was followed in Toto:

As we all know, Tom Brady is known best for his ability to lead a team to victory, even when facing what seems to be insurmountable odds. For instance yesterday, he led the Bucs from a 27-3 deficit to tie the game in the final minute. At the postgame press conference, reporters seemed to ask the same question over and over: Are you coming back?

And look at his reply:

"I haven't put a lot of thought into it," Brady responded. "We'll just take it day by day."" Truthfully, guys, I'm thinking about this game," Brady reiterated. "And, I'm not thinking about anything past five minutes from now."

Now, this may seem like a simple case of Brady not wanting to talk about leaving the game that he loves, but it's more. It’s an example of the simple rule of decision-making, and it teaches a major lesson in emotional intelligence. And what is the simple rule of decision-making, and how can you put it to work to help you and your business?

Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion.  

This rule is founded on principles of emotional intelligence, the ability to understand and manage emotions, because it leverages what we know about the brain and the way we make decisions. In this regard, Brady's response looks emotionally intelligent. By suggesting that careful thought needs to go into such a decision, Brady refuses to allow reporters to coerce him into saying something he may later regret.

So, how can you apply the simple rule of decision making?

Next time when you are faced with a major decision in a difficult moment, take a page out of Tom Brady's playbook and remember the simple rule of decision-making: Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion.And, doing so will help you to make greater use of your brain, avoid saying or doing things you regret, and make decisions you're proud of.

Further, ensure the following while making decisions:​

·      Problem solving–Coming with specific solutions duly understanding how emotions can impact on decision making

·      Reality testing – Remaining objective, duly understanding what is real & recognize where emotions could cause less objectivity.

·      Impulse control – identify & have the ability to recognize a rash impulse which could lead to a rash decision.