This episode seeks to define and describe Self-regulation.
It defines it as a critical skill for people of all ages. It is the ability that helps us to control our behaviours to make good decisions for the long term rather than just doing what we want now.
The skill allows us to manage our emotions when angry, disappointed, or worried.
Self-regulation is not the same as self-control, as both terms are different.
Why?
Self-regulation seeks to identify and reduce the causes of problems in mood, thought and behaviour, while self-control seeks to inhibit or manage such problems only when they arise.
In self-control, you battle with a perceived weakness as you judge yourself for not being able to control yourself. But you can't control emotions; you only manage them.
With self-regulation, you deal with the acceptance that the emotion is genuine and not a weakness. It helps you accept your vulnerability by knowing that there is power in vulnerability. Billy Jean King said that pressure is a positive force that can drive you to success when you handle it correctly.
Self-regulation allows you to regulate your emotions, thoughts and behaviours in a socially acceptable manner.