What is Executive Function?
Executive Function is a set of mental skills that help us plan, organize, recall instructions, manage time, control impulses,and regulate emotions. One way to understand executive function is to think of an air traffic controller. Air traffic controllers are responsible for keeping track of multiple things at the same time; airplanes, weather conditions, schedules, and the conditions on the ground (among other things!). Part of their job is to know which things are most important and what things can wait. Air traffic controllers learn skills to help them decide what air planes need immediate attention, what airplanes can be left to circle the airport for a little while, and what airplanes can be completely ignored for the time being. When air traffic controllers are doing their job well, every airplane gets where it needs to be and there are no collisions or emergencies.
Just like an air traffic controller keeps track of everything going on at the airport, our brains keep track of everything going on around us. Executive function skills are the mental processes we use to decide what is important and how we should respond. These skills help us pay attention, plan ahead, prioritize tasks, problem solve, and integrate our emotions.
Some people may appear to be naturally gifted with executive function, but no one is born with these skills. We learn them throughout our lives. Some people do learn these skills naturally and in a way that no one even notices. Looking from the outside, all we see is a person doing what is expected of them without major challenges. While they may need occasional support and guidance, they can usually avoid disasters and plane crashes.
There are also many people (children, teens and adults) who need direct support and instruction to learn these skills. People with neurodiversities like ADHD and Autism may find that these skills don’t come as naturally. Also, many adults who grew up without these skills being modeled might need a little extra support. Looking from the outside, we may see a person who has difficulty completing tasks at school or at work, finds themselves in frequent conflict with others, or just a person who seems constantly stressed out.
The good news is that executive function skills can be strengthened at any age. With the right tools and support, anyone can build strategies to feel more capable, confident, and in control of daily life. InnerWorks offers a free mini skill assessment, or you can meet with a coach to do a complete assessment and develop a customized plan to help you learn strategies that will help to improve your daily life. Email: hello@innerworkslondon.com to set up an assessment!
