Optimism Enhances Emotional Intelligence at Work

Optimism is a characteristic that is the basis of positive thinking. It is a psychological resource that gives people a generalized expectancy that they will succeed in accomplishing their goals. Expected success, in turn, gives people the energy to expend effort to realize their goals. If they expect failure then they will put less effort into a task and are more likely to give up as soon as an obstacle appears.

High emotional intelligence is correlated with an optimistic view of the world. Both optimism and EQ can be improved with training in emotional intelligence, communication, stress management and anger management.

The literature abounds in studies on optimism as a dispositional characteristic. Many studies have shown that an optimistic outlook on life leads to less incidences of aggressive behaviour, depression and distress, and greater subjective well being and life satisfaction. It has also been positively correlated with goal setting and achievement and negatively with goal abandonment and resignation to fate.

People who are optimistic will often see more opportunities than those who are pessimistic. They are able to put problems behind them and take a positive view of the future. Optimism is an attitude to life that prevents people from becoming apathetic, or giving up hope. Their belief that things can only get better is often a tonic for those around them. Their optimistic view of the world can be infectious and influence those they interact with.

Optimism appears to be socially desirable in all communities, work situations and interpersonal relationships. It is important that all Certified Anger Management Providers practice optimism and model optimism in their daily lives as well as their interaction with clients.

George Anderson, MSW, BCD, CAMF

www.aaamp.org

www.anger-management-resources.org