Words and Actions Matter: Practicing the Skill of Impulse Control

Wowee can we all relate to this one to some degree!!? Many times are busy brains are working faster than we can keep up with and those words race out alone with some behaviors that we think, oops, afterwards! Impulse control is one of those executive function challenges that is talked about, but we don't intentially work on strengthening that skill. Your brain is a giant muscle, and you can practice exercises that can strengthen and improve this area of weakness. 

In this episode, you will learn more about WHY it is a challenge to keep those words and actions under control, and I will share a helpful practice to work on managing and strengthing that impulse control skill. 

1. STOP (imagine that stop sign with your big imagination) when the words are about to be released (this takes practice of being self-aware of those busy thoughts).
2. BREATH- Taking intentional breaths pauses your thoughts while you redirect your focus to the breathing. (You may need to zip your lips and move your feet if those emotions are in charge)
3. THINK- This is where you think about if your words and/or actions are going to be helpful or hurtful.
4. RESPOND in a kind and respectful way- Whether the response is positive or negative, we can practice and have control over how we treat others. "I don't like how you are treating me, so I am going to play with someone else." or " That is so exciting for you! I hope sometime I can do that too!" or "I don't get it! Can you please explain it in a different way!?" 

I hope these takeaways are helpful in your journey towards strengthening that impluse control skill! Thank you for being you! You have a beautifully brilliant brain that is capable of wonderful things! Let's keep exercising your skills that feel tricky and lean into your strengths each and every day! 

Come visit me on my website www.katelynmabry.com to learn more about 1:1 ADHD Life Coaching, to order my book, or to email me about a future podcast episode idea! Remember, I am always looking for guests to come on and share your ADHD journey with all of our listeners! I hope to hear from you soon! Love you all!