8 phrases emotionally intelligent people tend to use without even realizing it, according to psychology

If you’ve ever interacted with someone who seems to handle emotions with ease, you may have been dealing with an individual high in emotional intelligence.

Emotionally intelligent people often have a knack for navigating complex emotional landscapes, theirs and others’, in a way that appears effortless.

They often use certain phrases without even realizing it and according to psychology, these phrases can indicate their high emotional intelligence.

Emotional intelligence isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a crucial aspect of human interaction and it’s not something that everyone has innately.

In this article, we’ll explore “8 phrases emotionally intelligent people tend to use without even realizing it”. This insight may just help you heighten your own emotional intelligence.

1) “How are you feeling?”

Emotionally intelligent people, often without even realizing it, tend to show genuine concern for others’ feelings. They might start a conversation with “How are you feeling?” and really mean it.

This question is not just a social nicety for them, but a way to gauge the emotional climate of the person they are interacting with. It allows them to adjust their approach based on the emotional needs of the other person.

For instance, if you’re having a bad day and an emotionally intelligent person asks you how you’re feeling, your response might lead them to offer comfort or space based on what they perceive you need at that moment.

What’s interesting is that this phrase isn’t just about being nice. It’s about understanding and responding to emotions effectively. By asking this question, emotionally intelligent people are setting the stage for a meaningful interaction where both parties feel seen and heard.

So next time you ask someone how they’re feeling, pay attention to their response and react accordingly. You might be surprised at how it can deepen your relationships and increase your own emotional intelligence.

2) “I don’t know”

It might be surprising to find “I don’t know” on this list, but it’s actually a phrase that emotionally intelligent people use quite often.

In a society that values certainty and quick answers, saying “I don’t know” can seem like a sign of weakness. But in reality, it’s a sign of emotional intelligence.

When emotionally intelligent people say “I don’t know,” it shows their willingness to admit when they lack knowledge or understanding. This honesty can help foster better relationships and communication.

Moreover, saying “I don’t know” can also indicate an openness to learning. It signals that they are open to new information and perspectives, which is a key aspect of emotional intelligence.

So, the next time you’re unsure about something, instead of pretending to know or making assumptions, try saying “I don’t know.” It might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s a simple phrase that can enhance your emotional intelligence.

3) “Help me understand”

“Help me understand” is a phrase that emotionally intelligent people frequently use. It’s an invitation for others to express their thoughts, feelings, or perspective more fully.

When someone says “help me understand,” it signals their willingness to put aside preconceived notions in order to truly listen and comprehend another person’s point of view. It creates a safe space for open dialogue, promoting empathy and mutual respect.

From a psychological perspective, this phrase can enhance the emotional bond between two individuals. The act of seeking understanding can help to validate the other person’s feelings and experiences, thus strengthening the relationship.

So, when in a conversation, instead of making assumptions or jumping to conclusions, consider using the phrase “help me understand.” It could lead to richer, more meaningful conversations and connections.

4) “Take your time”

The phrase “Take your time” is often used by emotionally intelligent people. It can serve as a gentle reminder that patience and understanding are essential in any interaction.

When we say “Take your time,” we’re not just referring to a physical sense of time, but also to emotional space. It’s a way of saying that it’s okay to take a moment, gather thoughts, process emotions or make decisions at one’s own pace.

This phrase reassures the other person that there’s no rush, reducing pressure and anxiety. It also shows respect for the other person’s needs and feelings.

The next time you find yourself in a situation where someone seems overwhelmed or uncertain, try saying “Take your time.” It can make a world of difference in fostering a supportive and considerate environment.

5) “We all make mistakes”

“We all make mistakes” is a phrase that emotionally intelligent people tend to use. It conveys an understanding that everyone, at some point, has faltered or misstepped.

This phrase is not about dismissing the mistake, but rather about acknowledging its universality. It’s a comforting reminder that imperfection is a part of being human.

When someone is feeling down because of a blunder they’ve made, hearing “We all make mistakes” can relieve some of the self-imposed pressure and guilt. It helps to normalize the experience and puts it into perspective.

So next time someone around you stumbles, remind them – and yourself – that we all make mistakes. It’s what we learn from them that truly matters.

6) “This too shall pass”

“This too shall pass” is a phrase emotionally intelligent people often use to convey perspective and resilience in the face of adversity.

Consider a situation where a close friend was going through a tough breakup. They were overwhelmed with emotions and it felt like the pain would never end. An emotionally intelligent person might respond with, “This too shall pass.”

This phrase provides comfort by reminding us that, just as with joy, pain is temporary. It offers hope, encouraging us to believe that we have the strength to overcome whatever we’re facing.

So, when you or someone around you is going through a tough time, remember – “This too shall pass”. It’s a gentle reminder of the transient nature of our experiences.

7) “You’ve got this”

Emotionally intelligent people often use the phrase “You’ve got this” as a way to express confidence in someone’s ability to handle a situation.

Let’s say a colleague is nervous about an upcoming presentation. Telling them “You’ve got this” isn’t just a pep talk. It conveys faith in their skills and abilities. It’s a nudge, a vote of confidence, a way to encourage them to believe in themselves.

While it might sound like just another cliché, this phrase can have a profound impact. It empowers, motivates, and ignites a spark of self-belief that can make all the difference when facing a challenge.

So next time someone around you doubts their abilities, remind them: “You’ve got this”. It could be the confidence boost they need to succeed.

8) “It’s okay”

Among the many phrases emotionally intelligent people use, “It’s okay” stands out as perhaps the most vital one.

Whether it’s used to comfort someone going through a tough time, to accept an apology, or to reassure someone who’s feeling anxious, “It’s okay” carries a profound sense of acceptance and understanding.

This simple phrase can work wonders in diffusing tension, providing comfort, and promoting emotional well-being. It communicates that everyone has struggles and it’s okay to not be perfect.

Remember, emotional intelligence is about understanding and managing emotions effectively – both ours and others’. So, when in doubt, just remember: “It’s okay”. It’s a powerful expression of empathy, reassurance and acceptance that can make a huge difference in your interactions.

Conclusion

Emotional intelligence is not just about being aware of our own emotions, but also about understanding and responding to the emotions of others. And sometimes, it’s as simple as using the right phrases.

This article has highlighted some common phrases emotionally intelligent people tend to use, but remember, it’s not just about the words. It’s about the intent and empathy behind them.

At the end of the day, emotional intelligence is about fostering better connections, building stronger relationships and creating an environment where everyone feels seen and heard.

So, whether you’re starting a conversation with “How are you feeling?” or comforting someone with “This too shall pass,” keep in mind that your words have power.

Here’s to nurturing our emotional intelligence and making our interactions more meaningful!