Raising Our EQ: Last Part: Achievable Targets
We are concluding our series on emotional intelligence with a note that defines the targets. These four targets are the essence that we look forward to.
These are the 4Ts of EQ: Taqwa, Tashakkur, Tazkiyah, Tawakkul.
Aiming for these targets and practising the exercises to improve emotional intelligence are not once-and-forever achievements, but rather a daily routine that we may need to do frequently throughout our day.
Emotionally intelligent individuals recognise their emotions and are more capable of managing them in a way that doesn’t harm themselves and others. They are conscious and aware that ALLAH is watching them closely at all times and one day they will have to answer to their Rab about the behaviour and choices they are making today.
These awareness practices lead to good moral and social behaviours. We can achieve more empathy, patience and humility when we are more emotionally understanding of the people around us.
Emotionally intelligent individuals can focus on the positive as they understand and realise more deeply, so they don’t overlook their blessings. They can regulate negative emotions; as a result, they express appreciation. They are thankful to their Rab and also to others around them.
Thankfulness is a happy state. By raising our EQ, we can be more thankful and satisfied by being mindful of our internal state. This recharges our positive energy, making us more likely to respond to challenges with patience and hope. Shukr serves as a powerful emotional tool that enhances emotional well-being and nurtures stronger connections.
The continuous efforts to improve our behaviours and purify our souls come with better emotional intelligence. Tazkiyah gives us a way ahead for self-regulation and inner growth. What is better than this? This is exactly what we are supposed to do in our assigned time in this world.
We will start to practice now the process of raising our EQ by getting aware of our internal states and transforming harmful impulses into constructive behaviour. It is all about constantly checking our actions, intentions, responses and trying our best to keep them within the guiding rules of the Quran and Sunnah.
Individuals with higher EQ have the best version of tawakkul. It teaches us to do our best while fully surrendering the outcome to Allah.
Tawakkul, combined with emotional intelligence (EQ), helps to balance our efforts with acceptance. While we try to do our best, we must also recognise ALLAH's plans, reminding us of our limitations and the supreme authority of Allah. This understanding can reduce anxiety, prevent emotional burnout, and help patience.
Tawakkul also reduces fear-driven behaviours as manipulation, scheming, and blaming. It encourages us to value individuals for who they are, rather than their social status. Trusting in ALLAH's plans provides us with beautiful emotional stability, calmness, peace, and confidence.
This is a time to review and practice what we learned in this series.
I like to mention again that improving myself for transformation into a happier, more satisfied and positive version of me, needs constant practice until it becomes my nature.
Welcome to the world of a contented self and happy relations. I wish you the best of luck in this journey. May ALLAH help all of us to be His good servants. aameen.
