I was introduced to the concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) about 10 years ago and, as someone who has been known to burst into tears without warning (and often) over the years, I very quickly fell in love with the notion that being in touch with my emotions may actually be a good thing. 

On one end of the scale I can be excitable and passionate, over ambitious and driven to distraction and on the opposing end; melodramatic, frequenting the depths of despair, and possibly more often than I’d like to admit, still prone to tearful outbursts. But these emotions have, and continue to, do more good than harm in my world. 
As a leader, my excitement often encourages others to jump on board where maybe their doubts and reservations may otherwise hold them back; my tenacity, drive and ambition show those around me that actually you can achieve almost anything you put your mind to; and the smiles and tears of joy in a wonderful moment can be all too infectious. The despair, compassion and tears on the other hand, show in the rawest form, that I too am human and that I do make mistakes, and that sometimes life is super tough even for those who appear most resilient. 
But what has to be the most humbling and rewarding part of being in tune with my emotions, is being able to better understand the emotions of those around me and then carefully choose an appropriate response. Whether it is being able to spot when someone is doing it tough, and then knowing whether to lend an ear or leave them alone; offering reassurance in a time of apparent doubt; taking the time to learn a little more about someone; offer advice to someone less knowledgable or experienced, or in the kindest possible way, minding my own business. I have found over time that there is power and beauty much bigger than we often realise in our chosen emotional response to those around us. 
Being emotional may mean that life has a few more ups and downs than maybe I’d like at times, but I wouldn’t change my emotional roller coaster for a single moment of blissful unawareness.