The 5 second rule by Mel Robbins states that if you have an idea or impulse that needs to be worked on, you must physically move to start acting on it within 5 seconds, or your brain will kill the idea. Here’s how it works: your brain is evolutionarily wired to be protective and keep you out of harm’s way. It doesn’t like your desire to try new things or take any risks. As brilliant as it may be, it often doesn’t realize that you aren’t exposed to the same dangers your primitive ancestors experienced. So, it constantly convinces you to stay in your comfort zone. Because of this, we unconsciously spend nearly 40% of our day on autopilot, where we operate out of habits.
When you apply the 5 second rule, you interrupt your brain’s autopilot mode and activate its prefrontal cortex: the part responsible for decision-making, controlling fear, acting with courage, learning new behavior and pursuing goals. This makes it possible to trick your brain into taking risks and helping you achieve your goals.
Yes. The rule is backed by science.
The way to apply the rule is easy. As soon as you have an idea that requires action, countdown from five. Say it out loud if you need to. 5-4-3-2-1 and go!
“I SHOULD CALL MY MUM.”
“I SHOULD GO FOR A RUN.”
“I SHOULD GO TO BED.”
“I SHOULD WRITE MORE.”
“I SHOULD APOLOGIZE.”
The fact is your brain is a fascinating and flexible organ that never stops growing. It can develop new neural pathways which lead to long-term behavioral change. This gives you the ability to learn and adapt to new things throughout your life. When you consistently apply the 5 second rule, you cultivate a bias toward action, which soon becomes a habit.
And new habits have the power to make you an entirely different person.
