A study of the relationship between the emotional intelligence capability of self-awareness and leadership development

The development of emotional intelligence capabilities can be an effective method for developing leadership skills (Goleman et al, 2002). This dissertation will explore the relationship between the emotional intelligence capability of self-awareness and leadership development. The contemporary working environment requires leaders to engage and motivate others to achieve business objectives. To be successful, the leader will need to develop sustainable working relationships and have the ability to respond appropriately to complex situations as they arise. According to Goleman (1998); ‘If your emotional abilities aren’t in hand, if you don’t have self-awareness, if you are not able to manage your distressing emotions, if you can’t have empathy and have effective relationships, then no matter how smart you are, you are not going to get very far.” To test the research hypothesis of ‘increasing the emotional intelligence capability of self-awareness is correlated to improved leadership development’, the researcher conducted a quantitative method approach to engage with a suitable population of respondents. The results of the survey were analysed to identify potential trends between self-awareness and leadership development process. The findings were then critiqued using literature review and academic research