15 Habits of Men Who Exude Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness

15 Habits of Men Who Exude Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness

Emotional intelligence and self-awareness are more than just buzzwords – they’re essential traits that can significantly impact a man’s life. Men who embody these qualities often possess a certain magnetism, effortlessly navigating social situations and building strong relationships. Here are some habits that set them apart:

1. They actively listen and validate others’ feelings.

They don’t just wait for their turn to speak; they actively listen, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues. They acknowledge others’ emotions without judgment, creating a safe space for open communication. It’s about truly hearing what someone has to say, not just waiting to respond.

2. They express their emotions in a healthy way.

They don’t bottle up their feelings. Instead, they express them in a constructive way, whether it’s through talking to a trusted friend, journaling, or engaging in physical activities to release pent-up emotions. It’s about finding healthy outlets, not letting things build up.

3. They take responsibility for their actions and apologize when necessary.

hipster guy with glasses standing outside office

They own up to their mistakes and apologize sincerely when they’ve hurt or offended someone. This shows humility and a willingness to learn and grow, building trust and respect in their relationships. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about owning up to your missteps.

4. They practice empathy and try to understand others’ perspectives.

Happy male person face home portrait. Blue eyes looking at camera close up. Joyful bristle surfer man long hair. Smiling shy guy. Kind casual people. Young adult hippie inside house. Hipster hairstyle

They put themselves in others’ shoes and try to understand their feelings and experiences. This leads to greater compassion and stronger relationships. It’s about seeing the world through someone else’s eyes, not just your own.

5. They set healthy boundaries and respect those of others.

They communicate their needs and limits clearly and respectfully, and they also respect the boundaries set by others. This creates a sense of mutual respect and avoids unnecessary conflict. It’s a two-way street – give respect, get respect.

6. They practice self-care and prioritize their well-being.

They prioritize their own well-being, both physically and mentally, through exercise, healthy eating habits, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that bring them joy and relaxation. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

7. They’re open to feedback and willing to learn and grow.

They see feedback as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement, listening to constructive criticism with an open mind and using it to make positive changes. They know there’s always room for improvement.

8. They’re not afraid to ask for help when they need it.

smiling guy walking with coffee cup outside

They understand they don’t have to have all the answers or handle everything alone. They’re not afraid to seek help, demonstrating strength and self-awareness. It takes courage to admit you need a hand sometimes.

9. They regulate their emotions and avoid impulsive reactions.

They pause before reacting, choosing their words and actions thoughtfully. This helps them avoid escalating conflicts and maintain healthy relationships. It’s about taking a breath and thinking things through.

10. They communicate clearly and assertively.

handsome guy walking down the street

They express their thoughts and feelings honestly and directly, while also respecting the feelings of others. This promotes understanding and prevents misunderstandings. They say what they mean, and mean what they say.

11. They’re self-aware and reflect on their own emotions and behaviors.

smiling guy at night market

They take time to understand their own emotions and how they impact themselves and others. This allows them to make conscious choices and regulate their behavior effectively. It’s a constant journey of self-discovery.

12. They build strong, meaningful relationships.

cute guy texting city street

Their emotional intelligence allows them to connect with others on a deeper level, fostering trust, respect, and mutual support. These are the kind of friendships that last a lifetime.

13. They’re resilient and able to bounce back from setbacks.

They view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, using their emotional intelligence to cope with adversity and come out stronger on the other side. They know that failure is just a stepping stone to success.

14. They manage stress effectively and prioritize relaxation.

They understand the importance of managing stress for their overall well-being. They develop healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature, to reduce stress and maintain balance in their lives. It’s about finding your zen.

15. They’re confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Their self-awareness allows them to accept themselves, flaws and all. This self-acceptance translates into genuine confidence and a positive self-image. They embrace their quirks and imperfections, knowing that’s what makes them unique.

Josh grew up in Connecticut and thought he could never be happier away from big bodies of water until he moved to Minneapolis and fell in love with it. He writes full-time, with his lifestyle content being published in the likes of Men's Health, Business Insider, and many more. When he's not writing, he likes running (but not enough to train for a marathon even though his buddy won't stop asking him).