Last week we did a bit of a refresher on emotional intelligence. I promised you questions, asked for suggestions, and you came through. Thank you! Here are some things our Is It Worth Your T.E.A.M.? community is pondering at the end of Q2 2026.
Your Private Q2 Reflection
These questions will affect what projects you accept, what boundaries you set, what relationships you invest in, and what habits you stop pretending are harmless. Set aside 20 minutes. No multitasking. Your brain deserves a private meeting with the rest of your body. Ask yourself:
- Where are you right now in the context of your ambition for your life?
- Where do you think you are going?
- Will the road you’re currently on take you where you want to go?
- How do you picture your life in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years?
- What do you want your legacy to be?
When Q2 Gave You Obstacles
Setbacks are not fun, but they produce opportunities. I try to remember to say to myself, “Use the difficulty,” as I figuratively stand up and dust myself off after I get knocked down. This helps me reframe a setback as a push forward.
Setbacks give you a chance to gain perspective. For example, maybe you didn’t get the promotion you expected in Q2. This is your chance to both grieve and hope. You can be disappointed and ambitious at the same time. You can admit something hurt and still choose your next move. While working through the pain, ask yourself:
- Was your work not visible enough?
- Were your relationships not as strong as you thought?
- What can you do in Q3 to increase your chances of getting the promotion in the next round?
Obstacles give you a chance to rest. Sometimes the next right step is not another sprint. Sometimes it’s recovery, so your next decision comes from a fully-charged mental battery instead of from low power mode. Ask yourself:
- How many times in the last three months did I make a decision when I was worn out?
- What was the impact of those decisions?
- Could I have taken a beat before making them?
- Would the outcome have been more positive if I had?
- What will I do the next time I’m worn out and facing an important decision?
What to do with Q2
Now that you’ve reflected, what should you do with all this data? Choose one emotional intelligence skill for Q3. Not five. One. For example, you could practice emotional self-awareness by naming your feelings before responding. Or practice adaptability by identifying two options when plans change. Maybe practice empathy by asking one better question before offering advice.
Which emotional intelligence skill are you working on in Q3? Please share in the comments.
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