Sample EQ Activities
In every workshop we have a dedicated activity to help develop our emotional intelligence (EQ). Various EQ activities we offer are structured along the 4 categories of the EQ framework – Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Social awareness and Social skills.
Additionally, in every workshop we have built-in presentation opportunities to strengthen our communication skills as well as periodic assignments in small groups to practice teamwork and leadership.
Self-awareness
Colourful mood
We learn that colours affect our mood and which colours are typically associated with which emotions. We pause and listen to ourselves to determine our mood and select the right colour. We then colour our handprints to represent the mood we have today and make sure to put a date on our drawings because our emotions are fluid – a simple but powerful message to start building emotional resilience.
And presenting our drawings and moods is another great practice for our communication skills.
Self-regulation
Glitter bottle
We talk about different strategies to cope with strong feelings and then add one more option to our repertoire - a glitter bottle.
When we shake it, everything inside is in a turmoil, like when we have strong emotions. And then we can breathe deeply and watch how the glitter slowly settles down, allowing our feelings to settle down as well.
Everyone is really excited to take the glitter bottle home!
Social awareness
Different perspective
We need to draw a picture of what the person sitting in front of us sees. It’s not easy at all to imagine what the other person sees! Sometimes we literally have to go to the place of the other person to be able to imagine that. The activity is a real eye opener!
And presenting our drawings is another great practice for our communication skills.
Social skills
Gratitude drawing
We first discuss what gratitude is. Once we grasp the basics of this new concept, we make drawings of something we are grateful for.
We then present the drawings to the group, using the opportunity to practice our presentation and listening skills.
