Reach for t’Sky

Season 1, Episode 13: Who Are These People?

I’m a natural loner, perfectly content in my own company. But as I progressed in my career, I learned that being a lone wolf doesn’t work in most workplaces, especially when you’re part of a team. To thrive, I couldn’t just go through the motions of working with others - I had to go deeper and start building real relationships. This was my first step toward developing emotional intelligence, and it wasn’t easy.

For someone like me, who naturally leaned toward independence, understanding others on an emotional level felt foreign. But I quickly realised that the workplace is more than just individual tasks; it’s about people, collaboration, and empathy. I had to make an active effort to get to know my colleagues, to really listen, and to show that I valued their perspectives. It was a process of learning to read the room, recognise different personalities, and adapt my approach based on who I was interacting with.

The more I developed these skills, the more I understood the value of emotional intelligence. Building relationships at work isn’t about pretending to be someone you’re not - it’s about understanding others, empathising with their needs, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. This shift didn’t just make me a better team member; it made me a better leader.

Emotional intelligence isn’t a skill you can tick off a list; it’s an ongoing process of growth. And for anyone who’s naturally introverted or prefers their own company, it’s a skill worth cultivating. Because in the workplace, your ability to connect with others can make all the difference.