Building Emotional Intelligence for Career Success
Success isn't just about hard skills or how much you know. It's about understanding people - starting with yourself. Emotional intelligence has been a complete game-changer for me in every single aspect of my life.
Years ago, when I was playing poker for a living, I'd rely on reading opponents and managing my own reactions under pressure. Little did I know, those skills were laying the foundation for my future in real estate. When I launched Evoke Capital, I realized that the ability to connect, empathize, and communicate effectively was crucial - not just for closing deals but for building lasting relationships.
The Journey to Self-Awareness
Early on, I was juggling so many tasks that burnout became a real threat. I thought saying "yes" to everything was the path to success. It turns out, it was actually a fast track to exhaustion. I learned that self-awareness is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence. Understanding my strengths, acknowledging my weaknesses, and recognizing what truly drives me made all the difference.
I discovered that accountability was my secret weapon. For instance, I am good at working out consistently, but I push myself much harder with an extra guardrail. So, I hired a trainer who shows up at my door every morning - no excuses. In my professional life, I work with an accountability coach who keeps me aligned with my goals. Revisiting these goals daily ensures I'm moving forward with purpose.
Connecting on a Deeper Level
Emotional intelligence isn't just about introspection; it's also about genuinely understanding others. I started paying closer attention to my team and investors, not just hearing their words but listening to their underlying needs and concerns. There is, after all, a difference between hearing and listening. This shift transformed our interactions. By being open about my own challenges, I created a space where others felt comfortable sharing theirs. It strengthened our relationships and built a foundation of trust that's invaluable in business.
Resilience Through Emotional Intelligence
Life throws curveballs - that's a given. But how you handle them makes all the difference. Developing emotional intelligence has made me more resilient. When setbacks occur, I'm better equipped to navigate them without losing sight of the bigger picture. At Evoke Capital, this resilience allows us to adapt our strategies while staying true to our core values.
The benefits extend beyond business. Emotional intelligence has enriched my personal life, helping me build more meaningful relationships and live more authentically. It's a continuous journey of growth and self-improvement that I am building on every single day.
The Road Ahead
Mastering emotional intelligence is a lifelong pursuit. As I continue to grow Evoke Capital, I remain committed to learning and evolving. I encourage you to embark on this journey as well. Investing in your emotional intelligence pays dividends far beyond the bottom line. It leads to a richer, more fulfilling life where success is measured not just by achievements but by the quality of relationships and personal satisfaction - both in business, and in your personal life.
Remember, true success isn't about chasing every deal or working yourself to the brink of exhaustion. What’s more important is meaningful connections and enjoying the life you're creating with the people who matter most. So take that first step - your future self will thank you.
