Essentially, executive functions are those abilities which allow us to get things done.
The most important executive functions are:
Inhibition of impulses so as to exert self-control
Working memory – the ability to hold information in mind while using it
Sustained attention
Task initiation
Planning/prioritizing
Organization
Time management
Persistence towards a goal
Self-monitoring/self- evaluation
Stress/frustration tolerance
Emotional control
Flexibility
We are born with different levels of these abilities. Some improve with maturity, and some can be learned. A variety of strategies can be developed to compensate for executive functioning difficulties so as to achieve success in life. People with ADD/ADHD generally have trouble with at least some of these executive functions. Neuropsychological testing is a good way to assess a person’s executive functioning and can lead to recommendations about how to bolster and work around the weaker ones.