Emotional intelligence involves striking a balance between emotion and reason in which neither one nor the other dominates (Evans, 2001). Emotionally intelligent people know when it is right to control their emotions and when it is right to be controlled by them. Our emotions tell us what is right and fitting in any situation and respond appropriately.
People who give importance to emotional awareness know that their deep feelings will always win them more acceptance than any data, and that emotions are reliable guides to effective decision making. If we can accept ourselves and our feelings, we can also accept our vulnerabilities. We are not afraid to feel the full brunt of painful feelings because we know that they are not meant to last. We don't also let the emotions of others, even our loved ones, to manipulate us, and we can give without martyring ourselves.
Part of being an effective formator is developing the capacity to allow oneself to be vulnerable to emotions appropriately. Building trustworthy relationships with the candidates will be easer for such a formator. Presence of this capacity is an important criterion to be considered in the selection of candidates for the formation ministry.