You know that moment when you’re lying in bed and think, “I should get up now…” but then you don’t? Or when you’re staring at your phone thinking, “I really should call that client…” but your thumb mysteriously scrolls to Facebook instead?
You’re not lazy. You’re just human.
But there’s a tool to outsmart that hesitation—and it only takes five seconds.
It’s called the 5 Second Rule, and no, I’m not talking about dropping food on the floor. I’m talking about Mel Robbins’ game-changing, science-backed strategy for beating procrastination and getting unstuck.
Here’s the magic:
The moment you have an instinct to act on a goal, count down:
5… 4… 3… 2… 1… GO.
Then move. Physically move. Stand up. Dial the number. Open the laptop. Step out the door. Whatever the next right step is—take it.
Why does this work?
Because hesitation is the death of action. The second you start overthinking, your brain throws up every reason to avoid discomfort. But that countdown? It interrupts the pattern and activates your prefrontal cortex—the part of your brain that’s in charge of decision-making.
It’s not about motivation. It’s about momentum.
Want to drink more water? 5-4-3-2-1, fill the glass.
Need to go for that walk? 5-4-3-2-1, put on your shoes.
Have an email that’s been sitting in your drafts all week? 5-4-3-2-1, hit send.
You don’t need to feel ready. You just need to move.
Action first. Confidence comes later.
And because I believe everything works better when rooted in purpose, let’s ground it in this reminder:
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” – Proverbs 16:3
So as you step into this week, don’t wait to feel ready.
Just count it down and GO.
You’ve got this—one bold, five-second decision at a time.
—Vickie
Wonderful goods from you, man. I’ve understand your stuff previous to and you’re just
extremely wonderful. I really like what you have acquired here, certainly like what you are stating and the way in which you say
it. You make it entertaining and you still care for to keep it smart.
I can not wait to read far more from you. This is really a terrific site.
Thank you
Great blog you’ve got here.. It’s difficult to find
high quality writing like yours nowadays. I truly appreciate individuals like you!
Take care!!
Thank you!
Love the direction here!
Thank you
Excellent piece !
thank you
Highly energetic blog, I enjoyed that a lot. Will there be a part 2?
I hadn’t thought about it. I just blog as things come to me. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Hi, just wanted to mention, I loved this blog post. It was helpful.
Keep on posting!
thank you!
Nice post. I learn something totally new and challenging on sites I
stumbleupon on a daily basis. It’s always interesting to read through articles
from other authors and practice a little something from other web sites.
I’m so glad you found it interesting!