The 5 Components of Emotional Intelligence for New Graduate Occupational Therapists

As you embark on your journey into the world of occupational therapy practice, there’s something you might not have heard of yet – emotional intelligence. Now, before you roll your eyes and think it’s just another buzzword, let me assure you, it’s much more than that! In fact, emotional intelligence can be a game-changer in your professional and personal life. So, fasten your seatbelts as we dive into the five components of emotional intelligence and discover how developing these skills will benefit you as a new graduate occupational therapist.

1. Self-awareness

   Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence. It’s all about understanding our own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. As new graduates, this means taking the time to reflect on our experiences, acknowledging our limitations, and recognising areas where we can grow. Remember, being aware of our emotions helps us manage them effectively, leading to improved patient/client care and better teamwork.