Impulse

An impulse is a sudden incitement to action that occurs before the consequences are fully assessed.

Definition

The impulse itself is not a bad thing; it is a signal of the body's readiness to react quickly. The problem occurs when an impulse automatically turns into action without stopping, choosing or assessing the consequences. In practice, regulating impulses is not about removing them, but about building a short break between stimulation and behavior.

Key ideas

Missing key ideas.

Practice and life

When a strong impulse occurs, apply the 90-second rule: postpone the action, name the impulse and ask what the effect will be if you react immediately.

Common misunderstanding

It is a mistake to accept every impulse as the truth about yourself. A common mistake is suppressing impulses without learning what causes them.

Questions for self-reflection

No questions for self-reflection.

Sources

No sources.