which results in the hasty word or deed, or the rash act committed on the impulse
of the moment and repented of at leisure; which compels the frequent, "I didn't
think, or I would not have done it!" The impulsive person may undoubtedly have
credited up to him many kind words and noble deeds. In addition, he usually
carries with him an air of spontaneity and whole-heartedness which goes far to
atone for his faults. The fact remains, however, that he is too little the master of
his acts, that he is guided too largely by external circumstances or inward
caprice. He lacks balance.
Impulsive action is not to be confused with quick decision and rapid action.
Many of the world's greatest and safest leaders have been noted for quickness of
decision and for rapidity of action in carrying out their decisions. It must be
remembered, however, that these men were making decisions in fields well
known to them. They were specialists in this line of deliberation. The motives
for and against certain lines of action had often been dwelt upon. All possible
contingencies had been imaged many times over, and a valuation placed upon
the different decisions. The various concepts had long been associated with
certain definite lines of action. Deliberation under such conditions can be carried
on with lightning rapidity, each motive being checked off as worth so much the
instant it presents itself, and action can follow immediately when attention
settles on the proper motive to govern the decision. This is not impulse, but
abbreviated deliberation. These facts suggest to us that we should think much
and carefully over matters in which we are required to make quick decisions.
Of course the remedy for the over-impulsive type is to cultivate deliberative
action. When the impulse comes to act without consideration, pause to give the
other side of the question an opportunity to be heard. Check the motor response
to ideas that suggest action until you have reviewed the field to see whether there
are contrary reasons to be taken into account. Form the habit of waiting for all
evidence before deciding. "Think twice" before you act.
The Obstructed Will.—The opposite of the impulsive type of will is the
obstructed or balky will. In this type there is too much inhibition, or else not
enough impulsion. Images which should result in action are checkmated by
opposing images, or do not possess vitality enough as motives to overcome the
dead weight of inertia which clogs mental action. The person knows well enough
what he should do, but he cannot get started. He "cannot get the consent of his
will." It may be the student whose mind is tormented by thoughts of coming
failure in recitation or examination, but who yet cannot force himself to the
exertion necessary safely to meet the ordeal. It may be the dissolute man who