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EXERCISE VI.A

FROM RECKLESSNESS TO CALCULATED

RISKS

All of us assume risks in everything we do. However, the risks we take in a given

situation can be reckless, not thinking through the consequences, or calculated.

Taking calculated risks involves a number of things. First, it means avoiding

acting too quickly on impulses. Next, it involves thinking a situation through to

its conclusion and anticipating the consequences. Finally, it calls for makingconcrete plans before acting. Addictive behavior and ADHD share traits related

to recklessness: wanting instant gratification, acting impulsively, and not

thinking situations through to their potential outcomes.

If we take calculated risks versus reckless risks, we have the best chance of

getting the outcomes we want and avoiding preventable problems. In this

exercise youll review your risk-taking patterns and consider changes to give you

more control over your life.

1. List some reckless behaviors you have engaged in, the situations in which

you did so, and the consequences.

Behavior Situation Consequence(s)

2. For one of the behaviors you listed in question 1, choose a situation with

which you continue to struggle. Complete the following formula to learn how

to take more calculated risks.

a. The situation is:

b. What outcome do you want to achieve?

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EXERCISE VI.A

c. What are some things you can say to yourself in this situation to avoid

an impulsive response, such as slow down, dont take it personally,

or relax and think for a minute?

d. Write out concrete instructions to yourself in the format below.

What is the problem?

What am I expected to do?

What are my optionswhat other things can I do?

What do I want to have happen?

The approach that will give me the best chance of the result I want

and will minimize difficulty will be...

What can I say to myself to help me cope?

To avoid this problem in the future, I need to focus on . ..

Be sure to bring this handout back to your next session with your therapist,

and be prepared to talk about your thoughts and feelings about the exercise.