PASSIONATELY IMPULSIVE

I know that some people carefully, rationally weigh alternatives when they come to a fork in the road. I’m typically not like that. Often my needs seem urgent and my actions are guided by powerful feelings—fear, anger, jealousy, love, lust, frustration, intuition, sympathy, courage, possessiveness, insecurity, sociability, hostility, sorrow, etc. (Notes: 1) Rather than acting in goal-oriented, measured fashion, primitive urges or childish reactions often spur this person’s actions. 2) Undoubtedly, rash, risky, “do without thinking actions” lead to early, sudden death for many.)

RATIONAL/ DISPASSIONATE

I typically make decisions after carefully considering the costs, risks and benefits—choosing from alternatives available. I do this free from passion, unaffected by emotions, and when necessary can resist instant gratification and wait.  

(Notes: 1) No doubt some differences in dispassionate and passionately impulsive people can be traced to brain biochemistry. 2) Learning /  feedback / memories of past experience all shape the mature worldviews that are behind making good choices—ones consistent with beliefs and values and that result in living a long, fulfilling life.)