When we think of intelligence, we tend to picture things like acing a math test or solving a Rubik’s cube - finding solutions to concrete problems. When it comes to identifying emotional intelligence, things can get messy. Emotions are…complicated. If mental intelligence is buttered noodles, emotional intelligence is a Spanish paella: there are dozens of ingredients and flavor combinations that it can easily become overwhelming. Just as we can experience multiple flavors, sometimes we feel multiple emotions at the same time.

Depression doesn’t always show blatant signs. Sometimes someone, even a close loved one, may be struggling right in front of us. They might hide their suffering, or not mention certain issues, because our society has attached a stigma to being open about certain feelings. But discussing mental health is the first step to seeking help; sometimes a conversation can save a life. And it starts by simply saying hello.

While bright pink socks might not be on brand for your company, any business can benefit from the connection bonding that forms from gifting. A simple gift or complimentary service will not only make someone else’s day, it will help establish a company culture that values empathy and honoring others. Forming connections within your company, as well as with customers, is a great way to ensure loyalty, company satisfaction, and a strong supply of fresh footwear.

Most people don’t realize how much their emotions direct their moral decisions. But without feeling emotions, you may be unable to make any moral judgements. It’s important that we first understand the concept of morality. Morality refers to the differentiation between decisions, actions, and intentions that are right and wrong.

Emotion regulation is the ability to exert control over one's own emotional state. It may involve behaviors such as rethinking a challenging situation to reduce anger or anxiety, hiding visible signs of sadness or fear, or focusing on reasons to feel happy or calm.

Let’s face it- emotions matter. Whether we’re aware of it or not, emotions can play a role in attention, memory, decision making, performance, and our overall mental well-being. But measuring and assessing these emotions is not always straightforward and easy. Given the impact of emotions in our daily lives, and the complexity of measuring them, they’ve become an important aspect in different environments even in ones where we would rather they didn’t such as the workplace. Let’s take a deeper look at what emotions are, why they are significant in various environments, and how we can measure them.