SMART Thinking - How To Develop A Positive Mindset - A Pathway To Increased Emotional Intelligence

Our emotional responses can strongly influence our behavior, often leading to impulsive actions and decisions that may not be in our best interests. To support individuals in harnessing their intellect and gaining control over their lives, the SMART system has been introduced. SMART is an acronym representing the five steps of this system: Separate, Monitor, Assess, Replace, and Trust.

Step One: Separate
The initial step involves learning to differentiate ourselves from our ingrained emotional responses. These responses, which can stem from early life experiences, might be negative or harmful and can result in hasty decisions. By recognizing that we are not defined by our emotions but rather experience them, we can begin to establish a sense of control.

Step Two: Monitor
Once we have successfully separated our identity from our emotions, the next step is to observe and monitor these emotions with our intellect. By consciously acknowledging our emotional state, we interrupt the connection between our emotions and our intellect, preventing undue influence on our decision-making.

Step Three: Assess
The third step entails assessing the impact of our emotions on our actions. Instead of categorizing emotions as "good" or "bad," we analyze how they affect our decision-making. Do they drive us towards impulsive actions or guide us towards constructive choices?

Step Four: Replace
After assessment, the focus shifts to replacing harmful impulses with reasoned responses that align with objective principles. This step does not involve suppressing emotions but rather making deliberate, rational decisions that reflect our values and principles. By replacing impulsive reactions with thoughtful responses guided by objective principles, we can exert control over our actions.

Step Five: Trust in Objective Principles
The final step of the SMART system is to place trust in objective principles. This involves having confidence in our capacity to make decisions that are both emotionally sound and grounded in our intellectual understanding and values. Trusting in objective principles affirms our ability as rational beings to experience emotions without being unduly influenced by them. It centers on believing in our capability to make choices based on what we perceive as right, fair, and beneficial.

The SMART system—Separate, Monitor, Assess, Replace, Trust in Objective Principles—offers a comprehensive approach to engaging our intellect, gaining control over our emotions, and effectively navigating life's challenges. It serves as a valuable tool for personal growth and emotional well-being. The journey toward emotional intelligence is ongoing, but by following these steps, individuals can progress in the right direction.