Impulsive behavior can be a sign of several conditions. Some of the most common ones include: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Examples of impulsivity here include interrupting others who are talking, shouting out answers to questions, or having trouble waiting your turn when standing in line.

What makes a person impulsive?

Sometimes people feel insecure or indecisive, so they make impulsive decisions in order to save face and act more confident and in control than they feel. For example, someone who is very insecure about their job performance may impulsively quit, rather than risk a poor job evaluation and the associated embarrassment.

What to do when you feel like being impulsive?

Practice deep breathing.

Deep breathing is one way to help manage stress, which can help you regulate your mood and reduce impulsive behavior. Focusing on your breathing can also help distract you as you move past the urge to act impulsively.