I M P U L S E C O N T R O L

There is a lot to be said about being in a position of leadership and understanding the impact of what you say. Whether you are making a speech via keynote, a guest on a podcast, live streaming service, or even commenting in private, it is always wise to consider your words - especially when prompted to speak on particular topics.

History is littered with examples of poorly chosen words uttered by misguided leaders. Unfortunately, leaders often forget that words can come back to haunt us and, perhaps most importantly, those who also occupy our sphere of influence.

When leaders take a stance on any socio-political or broader economic issue, the impact of our words on those around us must always be a thought. Our words could result in livelihoods being lost or, to be extreme, lives being ended. It is one thing to speak your mind and another thing to speak your mind without thinking about its impact on others.

Witnessing individuals postulate unsavoury comments about equality, race and ethnicity, and gender then having to issue hasty apologies for clarity on social media platforms or where necessary in person, I can only imagine what the collateral damage will be further down the line not just for themselves but other stakeholders..

Impulse control is about intentionally making decisions about what we say and how we say it. Building a system of accountability for ourselves or through the levers of others before we decide to “speak our truth”. Of course, others may find less controlled responses transparent and refreshing. However, they aren’t the ones picking up the pieces when the damage is done, scurrying around trying to implement disaster control strategies.

A core part of building resilience in teams and organisations is avoiding high stress and tense situations. Especially those of our own making.

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