Strategies for applying emotional intelligence to public management

Emotional intelligence has become one of the fundamental pillars for efficient and humanized public management. In a scenario where leaders face complex challenges such as economic crises, social tensions, and growing public demands, the ability to understand and manage emotions can make the difference between a rigid government and a truly effective administration. Recent studies from institutions such as Harvard and Yale show that emotionally intelligent leaders make better decisions, foster healthy work environments, and increase society's trust in public institutions.

Emotional intelligence in public management begins with self-awareness. Leaders who understand their emotions and reactions tend to act with more balance in challenging situations. An iconic example is Nelson Mandela, who, despite years of imprisonment, did not let resentment dominate his actions. His emotional mastery allowed him to lead South Africa through a peaceful democratic transition. The MAT method (Mindset, Action, and Theater), developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, teaches that the first step for any real change is adjusting one's mindset, followed by actions aligned with ethical and human values.

Beyond self-awareness, empathy is one of the most valuable qualities for public managers. A study by Stanford University demonstrated that political leaders who practice active listening and put themselves in others' shoes create more effective and inclusive public policies. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stood out for her empathetic approach in dealing with crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and terrorist attacks, promoting a government that was close to the population and sensitive to society's needs.

Emotional regulation is another essential skill for public managers. In an environment of constant pressure, where decisions impact millions of lives, maintaining emotional balance prevents impulsive reactions and improves decision-making. The ThM method (Theater Movement) explores how body movement and artistic expression can help with emotional self-regulation, allowing managers to channel tension and communicate more authentically. Leaders who master this skill convey security and coherence, inspiring confidence in their teams and the public.

Another fundamental aspect of emotional intelligence is intrinsic motivation. The University of Chicago conducted a study showing that public managers who find meaning in their work demonstrate greater resilience and productivity. Former U.S. President Ronald Reagan emphasized his vision of a most developed country, inspiring millions to engage in politics and public service. The TBMB method (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) reinforces that narrative and storytelling are powerful tools for motivation, as they allow leaders to communicate their ideas in an engaging and accessible way.

Interpersonal relationships in the public sector also benefit from emotional intelligence. In any government sphere, the ability to build partnerships, mediate conflicts, and inspire teams is a differentiator. Studies from Oxford University indicate that organizations with emotionally intelligent leaders have lower turnover rates and higher employee engagement. A notable example is Bogotá’s former mayor, Antanas Mockus, who used humor and creativity to promote citizenship and solve urban problems, demonstrating how public management can be innovative and closely aligned with people's realities.

Emotional intelligence is also crucial in government communication. In times of crisis, clarity, transparency, and sensitivity in communication make all the difference. Research from Cambridge University indicates that citizens trust governments more when they demonstrate empathy in their messages rather than just conveying cold and bureaucratic data. During the pandemic, several leaders adopted a calm and empathetic tone when communicating restrictive measures, resulting in greater public adherence to health policies.

The ability to resolve conflicts constructively is another benefit of emotional intelligence. The MAT method teaches that instead of avoiding confrontations, leaders should address disagreements strategically, listening to all parties and seeking collaborative solutions. The success of the peace process in Colombia, for example, was the result of years of negotiations based on emotional intelligence and diplomacy, allowing former guerrillas to be peacefully reintegrated into society.

Finally, emotional intelligence in public management should be seen as an ongoing competence to be developed. Great leaders are not born ready; they learn throughout their journey to manage emotions and connect with people. Investing in training programs based on innovative methodologies such as MAT, ThM, and TBMB can transform the organizational culture of the public sector and prepare new generations of more humanized and effective managers.

The true revolution in public management is not only in technology or administrative reforms but in the ability to understand and manage emotions. Leaders who master emotional intelligence build bridges, strengthen democracy, and inspire lasting change. Applying these strategies means not only improving government efficiency but transforming how the public sector relates to society, promoting a fairer and more sustainable future for all.

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