Executive intelligence describes the everyday thinking skills that help us plan, make decisions, manage impulses and adapt to change. These skills are sometimes called executive functions. Everyone uses them, at work, at home and in daily life.

Unlike a score on a test, these skills aren’t fixed. They can grow with practice. Here are four of them, with simple ways to strengthen each.

1. Self-control

Self-control is the ability to pause before acting on an impulse, such as buying something on a whim or reacting angrily.

Try this: When you feel a strong urge, wait a few seconds and ask, Do I really want this?

2. Working memory

Working memory is your ability to hold information in mind while you use it, like remembering a phone number or following a recipe.

Try this: Reduce the load on your working memory by writing things down. Lists and notes free your mind for thinking.

3. Planning

Planning means thinking ahead, setting priorities and deciding on steps to reach a goal.

Try this: Each evening, write down the one most important thing you want to do tomorrow.

4. Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to adapt when plans change, see other perspectives and try new approaches.

Try this: When something doesn’t go as planned, ask, What’s another way I could approach this?

Supporting your thinking skills

Sleep, regular movement, nourishing food and breaks during the day all help your brain work at its best. When you’re tired or stressed, these skills naturally feel harder, so be patient with yourself.

How little is enough

Tonight, write down one important thing you want to do tomorrow, and one small step to start it.

For more, read 5 ways to stop being distracted from your goals.

If you’d like a gentle companion for finding your way through change, there’s a guided journal for it on the Guides page.