Hmmm. Those tools provide intriguing feedback but don’t actually measure EQ. By definition, the Q refers to a score normed against a sample. There are now a bunch of well-validated measures. The best provide rich, practical feedback on how to leverage and grow. Here’s a great place to start: www.6seconds.org/tools/toolfinder or this summary of how to choose an EQ test: www.6seconds.org/tests

Don't get caught up in the false idea that meditation means you're not thinking of anything. In fact, one kind of meditation involves watching the thoughts that pop into your brain, simply watch as they come and go. Experiment with different kinds of meditation to see what works best for you. Over time, meditation can not only improve the brain's neuroplasticity, it can also lower blood pressure and decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke.

I use an assessment tool based on William Marston's DISC theory, which helps me identify how I like to manage and manage others, and more importantly, how others like to manage and be managed. We develop a particular communication style and how we prefer to interact with others at a very young age, which heavily influences our behaviour. The key is to identify how they like to communicate and interact with others and then use that understanding to work with them the way they want. If managers and leaders adapt their behaviour to be more in tune with whom they are working, they will be more receptive.

Emotional intelligence involves using our executive function, our prefrontal cortex. The foundation of EI is awareness, the capacity to assess, interpret, and manage our emotions, perceive ourselves and others, and understand our responses. My EI model hinges on the practice of four key behaviors, C.O.P.E. courage, optimism, patience, and empathy. Courage: the ability to be authentic, vulnerable, and willing to take risks by stepping outside of one's comfort zone. Optimism: have an abundance mindset, a positive outlook, and faith in potential opportunities. Patience: trusting the process coupled with the ability for delayed gratification. Empathy: having compassion and the ability to understand others' perspectives.