Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Preceding research by synthesizing overlapping elements of mental toughness, optimal regulation, and self-efficacy identified Non-Cognitive Adaptive Resourcefulness (NCAR): a general, positive psychological energy that enables coping. Although validated by subsequent research, further investigation was needed to nomologically validate NCAR alongside allied non-cognitive skills and assess criterion validity against practical outcomes. To address this, the current study evaluated NCAR in relation to emotional intelligence (EI) and chronic time pressure (CTP). METHODS: This study included 1,007 UK-based respondents (Mage = 37.30 years, SD = 11.65, range 18-66), with 572 females, 429 males, five non-binary, and one who preferred not to disclose gender. Data were collected through an online survey that incorporated multiple psychometric instruments. RESULTS: Exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) successfully replicated the NCAR model and determined that EI was distinct. Specifically, EI shared regulatory components with NCAR but was distinguishable via its focus on emotion identification and understanding. Structural equation modeling revealed that NCAR significantly predicted Feeling Harried (FH), the subjective, stressful experience of being rushed, but showed mixed results for Cognitive Awareness (CA), the objective appraisal of time shortage. DISCUSSION: Overall, results demonstrated that NCAR emphasizes emotional and coping-related aspects of time perception (FH) while facilitating realistic appraisal of time constraints (CA). Future research should examine the extent to which these findings generalize to other populations, including through cross-cultural comparisons.