Olessia Gorkovenko
University of South Africa, South Africa
Title: Constructive emotional intelligence pedagogical technology and spiritual aspect
Biography
Biography: Olessia Gorkovenko
Abstract
In the 21st century modern organisations are looking to differentiate themselves. Companies have begun to realise that merely relating on the emotional (EQ) and rational (IQ) levels and relying on the skills of their staff does not offer sufficient progress towards meaningful existence and the purpose of the organisation, to renew vision, and to overcome the complex problems facing staff, and so sustain the survival of the organisation. Covey explains that effective leaders in the organisation “consistently practice the four attributes of human personality: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual” (at p. 38). Following the same direction, Strack and Fottler (2002) state that organisations where at least some of the leaders are more spiritually intelligent are more likely to implement the practices of effective leadership, such as empower others; challenge the process; inspire a shared vision; direct behaviour; and encourage the heart. Watkins (2003) argues that organisations have started to recognise the importance of the value of a person as a whole, more from a spiritual perspective than just as someone who brings the required skills for the job. Neal (2001) refers to the increasing awareness of Spiritual Intelligence in the workplace shown by organisations. Between 1999 and 2012, Koenig, King and Carson (2001) estimate that more then 3000 articles and studies which were published on the topic of spirituality.
Now an increasing number of companies have started incorporating spiritual intelligence training, skills, practices and transformation into their system of organisational development. Many business schools, and scientific, management, health research journals accept and recognise spirituality as an important and crucial area for study and research in the 21st Century.
Spirituality is the ultimate level of intelligence, with or without any religious bias, to help one understand oneself. Neal (2001) highlighted that during periods of economic downturn, people become demotivated and start looking beyond conventional materialism for meaning and purpose in life.
Stress at work and home has increased various stress-related health problems. This has made people tune into such concepts and practices as yoga, meditation, pilates, mindfulness, spiritual music and prayer. If an employee spent more than seven hours at the workplace and especially in the IT/ITES industry with typically extended working hours, there is a need for the organisation to look for methods and practices to relieve stress and anxiety. Work-life-family balance has become essential today. Several corporates in the US, France, India, Russia and England have opted for such programmes as the Achieving Personal Excellence offered by the Art of Living Foundation and similar programmes. Conger et al. (1994) refer to the workplace as a community rather than a neighbourhood. When more and more people reach the level and state of self-actualisation, their need for spirituality also increases as indicated by Maslow (1994).