3 Things Emotionally Intelligent People Do with Their Phones – Do You Do These?

Emotionally intelligent people use their phones differently. These habits are worth adopting.

Dr. Jenny Woo, a Harvard graduate, EQ researcher, and founder of Mind Brain Emotion, has spent years studying emotionally intelligent people and their habits. She's found that their unique phone usage patterns influence their social connections and reputation. Here are some habits to consider adopting:

They prioritize social interactions over phone use

Emotionally intelligent people are intentional about phone use, especially in social settings. To avoid distractions, they plan ahead:

• During meals, they silence their phone and check it only after eating.
• In meetings, they hand write reminders to address later.
• If they must check their phone during a conversation, they inform the other person first.
• Instead of criticizing themselves when they slip up, they apply the same approach to improving relationships. If caught looking at their phone during a conversation, they apologize and refocus.

They keep their phones at a distance

Research shows that having a phone within reach, even when it's off, can reduce cognitive function. Emotionally intelligent people are mindful of this and actively reduce distractions by keeping their phones out of arm's reach, often in another room. This physical separation helps them stay focused and present, especially when their self discipline might falter.

They create phone free zones

Constant notifications can keep the brain in a reactive state. It takes an average of 23 minutes to refocus after checking a phone. Emotionally intelligent people recognize this and intentionally take breaks from their phones, using scheduled pauses or apps to limit use. For important meetings or conversations, they switch their phone to "Do Not Disturb" mode.