Think of a few exceptionally good leaders you’ve worked with in the past. Perhaps a supervisor, colleague, or mentor. Now take a moment to consider three qualities that made them so outstanding. Were they good listeners or empathetic? How ‘bout open to new ideas or passionate about their work? Did they believe in you and your goals? No rush—I’m happy to wait while you conjure up their strong suits.

Recently I attended a training entitled “High Impact Leadership Through Emotional Intelligence” hosted by MAP for Nonprofits thanks to a scholarship from YNPN-TC.There I learned that emotional skills are most often what make exceptional leaders. The inverse is also true for ineffective leaders with weak emotional skills, which typically detract from their leadership abilities. Emotions, when poorly managed, can get in the way of achieving your goals when interacting with people.

The energy in the Guthrie’s Wurtele Thrust Stage was palpable, nearly every seat in the house filled. But this wasn’t opening night of the theater’s latest production. Nonprofit leaders from across the Midwest were gathered for the keynote at bushCONNECT.