How to Control Your Impulses So You Don't Ruin Your Life | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Developing impulse control and strengthening the no-go functions in our neural circuitry is crucial for making rational choices and avoiding reactive behavior.

Key Insights

• 🖤 Reactive behavior and a lack of impulse control stem from a deficiency in the no-go functions of our neural circuitry.
• 🎮 Reinforcing the no-go circuits through conscious practices helps improve impulse control.
• 💭 Go functions are essential for action-oriented behavior and thought processes.
• 👻 Developing impulse control allows us to make rational choices and avoid reactive behavior.
• 🎮 Daily habits and routines play a significant role in strengthening neural circuits and improving impulse control.
• 🎮 Context switching and excessive stimulation can hinder impulse control.
• 🎮 Focusing on one task for extended periods can be challenging but is beneficial for enhancing impulse control.

Transcript

you know at any moment we're kind of like feeling defeated we're flat-footed or forward center of mass and forward center of mass takes energy but it also has its own momentum and so i think getting up and doing something without involving rumination or consideration or thought just getting into action sets your whole nervous system into a mode of ... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How does impulse control affect our decision-making process?

Impulse control is vital for making rational choices. Without it, we tend to react without reasoning and lack awareness of our irrational behavior in the moment. Developing impulse control allows us to pause and consider our actions before responding impulsively.

Q: What are the go and no-go functions in our neural circuitry?

The go functions involve action-oriented behavior, while the no-go functions are responsible for suppressing behavior. These circuits in the basal ganglia of our neural circuitry are regulated by dopamine but use different receptors for dopamine, leading to opposite effects.

Q: How can we reinforce our no-go functions?

One way to reinforce the no-go functions is by introducing deliberate no-goes throughout the day. This can be as simple as delaying an impulse or sticking to a routine. By consciously practicing self-control, we strengthen the circuits responsible for suppressing behavior.

Q: How can we develop better impulse control in everyday life?

One approach is to create structure and focus in our daily activities. Setting aside focused work bouts without succumbing to distractions can help train our impulse control. Additionally, consciously avoiding context switching and resisting the temptation to check our phones or engage in reactive behavior can further enhance our impulse control.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Lack of impulse control is the source of many problems, as we often react without reasoning and are not aware of our irrational behavior in the moment.

• There are two main circuits in the basal ganglia of our neural circuitry, regulated by dopamine, responsible for go functions (action-oriented) and no-go functions (behavior suppression).

• Reinforcing the no-go circuits through daily practices, such as delaying impulses or sticking to a routine, can help subdue reactive behavior and improve impulse control.