Author: Jeel Solanki

Our recent Life Class on the 7 Habits for Adults was an opportunity to pause, reflect, and understand how our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours influence the way we interact with others and lead.

The session was made especially engaging by our facilitators and fellow participants, who actively contributed to the discussions and brainstorming. Through different perspectives, questions, and real-life situations, the session became an interactive space where we could connect the concepts to our own experiences.

One of the interesting concepts we explored was the Johari Window, which helped us understand ourselves and how others perceive us. We reflected on our open, blind, hidden, and unknown areas and discussed how feedback and self-awareness can help us recognise our blind spots and grow as individuals and leaders.

We also explored the concept of “Amygdala Hijack” and how strong emotions can sometimes cause us to react before we have had the opportunity to think. This led to an insightful discussion on the difference between an impulsive response and an emotionally intelligent response.

An impulsive response is often immediate and emotion-driven, whereas an emotionally intelligent response involves pausing, understanding the situation, regulating our emotions, and then choosing how to respond.

This connected naturally with our discussion on leadership. We reflected on how a leader should respond when faced with challenging or emotionally charged situations. A good leader is not necessarily the person who reacts the fastest, but the person who can pause, reflect, and respond intentionally.

Another thought-provoking discussion was around immediate rewards versus long-term rewards. We often have to choose between what feels satisfying in the moment and what will create a better outcome in the long run. Choosing patience, self-control, and thoughtful action may not provide an immediate reward, but it can lead to stronger relationships, wiser decisions, and meaningful growth.

The brainstorming and discussions made the learning more relatable. Listening to different viewpoints helped us realise that the same situation can be perceived and handled differently, depending on our emotions, experiences, and level of awareness.

The session reminded us that leadership begins with leading ourselves. When we become more aware of our emotions, recognise our blind spots, welcome feedback, and consciously choose our responses, we become better equipped to influence and support others positively.

The biggest takeaway for me was simple:

Pause. Reflect. Understand. Then respond.

Because sometimes, the small space between an emotion and our response is where self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and true leadership begin.