Emotional Intelligence is often looked upon as being one of those topics which is a bit abstract - a bit "Out There!"  However, if we look past the aspects of the subject which are academic and perhaps put us off, we may have a different view.  Emotional Intelligence is a phrase which was popularised in the 1995 book of the same title.  However, it has been researched over many years and is still in most cases on the fringe of people development.

Many studies exist which prove that having high levels of Emotional Intelligence enhances productivity and can actually reduce stress in the workplace.

Lisa Gardner of Swinburne University’s Centre for Neuropsychology surveyed 133 employees from a range of industries including marketing, information technology and engineering.  She said those with higher levels of Emotional Intelligence tended to be healthier mentally and physically. They were less likely to suffer sleeplessness, headaches, muscle pains and other physical symptoms associated with stress.

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise and express emotions in yourself and the ability to understand the emotions of colleagues. In a recent presentation from ihatemypc who maintain dta WORLDWIDE computer systems, this humorous video reminded us how much emotion does effect us at work.

The sad passing a few weeks ago of Professor Chris O’Brien, Head and Neck Surgeon in Sydney Australia is a stark reminder to us all of the power of the brain.  Professor O’Brien, for those who don’t know, was well known through his appearances on the Australian TV show RPA.  The programme followed the work of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney.  Professor O’Brien was often featured treating his patients with head and neck disorders; in particular tumours of the brain of which ironically he was to succomb.

Since his diagnosis in Novmber 2006 he has fought the disease with incredible vigour.  Having been told he had only 6 months to live, he worked to create a new cancer research and treatment centre called Lifehouse at RPA.  To watch his amazing progress raises a number of questions.  Against medical odds, he survived much longer.  Why?  It seems that his positive attitude and determination to beat the condition were major contributing factors.  To have the ability to see the positive in any situation is a true sign of high emotional intelligence.  He even commented in April this year that he needed to continue as his son told him he couldn’t die yet!  Chris O’Brien did indeed remain focussed on living and doing what he did best.  Helping other people.

If a man who knew the likely outcome of his condition can believe so strongly that he will fight on with such positivity, what does that teach us about the more mundane aspects of life which we can change through the ability to focus on what we want rather than what we don’t  want?  May his legacy live on and teach us all a little bit about the way we see the world.

Professor Chris O’Brien.  Click here to learn more about Lifehouse The Cancer Tr\eatment Centre set up by Chris O’Brien

dta WORLDWIDE recently participated in a trade mission to India organised by the Australian Trade Commission - Austrade.  One of ten companies attending, dta WORLDWIDE’s Managing Director, Malcolm Dawes, met a number of Learning & Development organisations who are keen to partner with dta in India.  In addition, meetings and discussions were held with many associations and industry groups, including the All India Management Association, the Institute of Management Consultants India and the National Human Resource Development Network.

India is a rapidly growing country, with 6% growth expected this year, even in the current economic climate.  It has a large number of major infrastructure projects and is developing its global offerings.  Leadership, Sales and Team work are at the forefront of this development of the country’s industry.    dta is well positioned to work closely with its Indian partners in bringing development solutions to the market.  The visit which covered three cities, New Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai was highly successful and dta met a number of new and established businesses keen to grow and add to their exisiting portfolio of solutions.  Many of the Indian delegates travelled from other cities such as Pune, Baroda and Bangalore in order to participate.  There was also a delegation from Bangladesh that had travelled to identify possible partnerships.

There were a number of networking functions one of which took place at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.  This was a joint event with the Australian New Zealand Business Association in India (ANZBAI) where a large number of companies were represented.  Peter Linford the Senior Trade Commissioner was the host at the function and he noted how important the need for ongoing learning and development is as Indias business globalises.  To read more about Peter Linfords comments visit Utsav Australia.

dta has recently met a number of delegates from the World Trade Centre Mumbai who were on a visit to Australia to explore partnerships.  We are pleased to have the opportunity to work closely with our new Indian colleagues and work with them in developing future business ties.

(Above Left) ANZBAI delegates in New Delhi

(Above Right) Malcolm Dawes with Australian Consul General Mr. Aminur Rahman in Chennai

(Above) Mr. Kishore Managing Director of Everonn Systems presenting a gift of a "Toda Shawl"