Response Inhibition – Impulse Control
Flexibility is the ability to adapt when plans change, new information comes in, or something doesn’t go as expected. Like all executive skills, it can look very different depending on the day, the situation, and what else is going on for you.
Definition: Steady. The capacity to pause and think before you act. You use this time (even if it’s a few seconds) to think through how your behavior might impact a situation and to resist the urge to say or do the first thing that comes to your mind if it does not line up with your goals. You might feel balanced and ready in difficult situations. You might feel confident in your ability to stay emotionally regulated and to use the skills you have.
How this might show up…
- You pause before reacting, even if it is only a few seconds.
- You think before speaking or acting.
- You think about similar decisions you have made in the past and use that information to help you act in line with your goals.
- You can regulate your emotions enough to wait for something that you feel is “worth it”.
- People often see you as calm, purposeful, controlled and/or disciplined.
On the other hand…
- You might second-guess yourself unnecessarily.
- People might interpret your actions as indecisive.
Opposite: Impulsive or Emotional. Difficulty pausing to think through the urge to say or do something. It can result in words that you can’t unsay or actions that you cannot undo, causing general anxiety.
How this might show up…
- You find it hard to wait.
- You blurt out your first thought and may interrupt conversations.
- You make impulsive decisions that affect relationships (personal and work), your finances, and your goals.
- You may feel like you are constantly apologizing. You often feel embarrassed.
- You might also have challenges managing your emotions more often than you like, and this might cause you embarrassment or shame after the fact.
- People might consider you untrustworthy.
On the other hand…
- Responsiveness can be seen as a genuine skill.
- You may respond authentically before social filtering kicks in, resulting in others experiencing your warmth, realness, or feeling truly seen.
- You might feel authentic and genuine.
- You may catch an idea and run with it.
- You might feel powerful in the moment because you are in action.
- Trusting in your “gut” might work out at times when quick action is needed and there is no time for careful consideration.
How others might interpret this:
People may interpret your actions as inconsiderate, thoughtless, or immature, OR
People may interpret your actions as authentic, powerful and instinctive.
Coming Soon!