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Home Foundations of public administration Personal Effectiveness Psychological Flexibility for Civil Servants: Cognitive Distancing for Clearer Thinking and Decision-Making

Psychological Flexibility for Civil Servants: Cognitive Distancing for Clearer Thinking and Decision-Making

Identify moments when stepping back enhances clarity and decision-making
Apply cognitive distancing techniques to reduce emotional reactivity
Reframe challenges to sustain motivation and forward momentum
Use perspective-taking to improve empathy and collaboration
Strengthen resilience in complex and uncertain environments

Overview

Off the shelf (OTS)

Target Audience:
This module is designed for civil servants at all levels who are navigating complex, high-pressure environments and want to improve clarity in thinking and decision-making. It is particularly relevant for those working in policy, operations, or leadership roles where emotional reactivity can impact performance.

Prerequisites / Experience Level:
No prior experience with psychological flexibility is required. Suitable for individuals and teams seeking practical tools to enhance focus, motivation, and resilience.

Course Description:
This module focuses on the skill of cognitive distancing; stepping back from immediate emotional reactions to gain perspective and clarity. Grounded in the psychological flexibility model and ACT principles, participants will explore how distancing techniques can reduce fear, improve decision-making, and sustain motivation. Delivered in a safe, non-judgmental learning environment, the session includes real-time scenarios, peer dialogue, and practical exercises to support immediate application in the workplace.

Course Objectives / Topics Covered
•Introduction to cognitive distancing and its role in psychological flexibility
•Techniques for stepping back and gaining perspective under pressure
•Reducing emotional reactivity to improve clarity and focus
•Enhancing empathy and perspective-taking in decision-making
•Sustaining motivation and goal alignment through reframing