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Leaders with high emotional intelligence are known to manage their emotions quite well. Start with any of these strategies.
Ever had a moment where your emotions nearly got the best of you? Maybe it came right before a big meeting, during a tough conversation, or when a teammate dropped the ball again?
Most of us have. And in leadership, those moments matter. They shape how people see us, how decisions get made, and how trust is built (or broken).
Managing your emotions doesn’t mean shutting them off. It means learning how to recognize what you’re feeling, pause before reacting, and choose a response that reflects your values—not just your stress.
Here are eight practical strategies to help you manage emotions with more clarity and confidence, even on the hard days.
1. Start with Self-Awareness
Managing your emotions begins with understanding them. That means noticing when you’re feeling irritated, anxious, disappointed, or overwhelmed—before those feelings drive your actions.
For example, if you’re leading a meeting and someone challenges your idea, you might feel defensive. Instead of snapping back, pause and ask yourself: What exactly am I feeling? And why?
Leaders who regularly check in with themselves—whether through journaling, quiet reflection, or even voice memos—begin to spot emotional patterns. Over time, this habit builds emotional intelligence and helps you recognize triggers before they turn into reactions. (more…)