From Stuck to Started—The 5-Second Rule

Sea, Sand & Soul Fitness Getaway 2022, Brackley Beach, PEI

Unlike Mel Robbins, I’ve never been $800,000 in debt or so low I couldn’t get out of bed. Still, the idea in her bestselling book, The 5-Second Rule, immediately resonated with me. The concept is simple: when hesitation or procrastination strikes, count down—5, 4, 3, 2, 1—and then act. It’s a little nudge that stops your brain from talking you out of it.

I most recently tried this last year at our Sea, Sand & Soul fitness retreat in Prince Edward Island. On a brisk September morning, I stood still, shin-deep in the Atlantic Ocean, while my friends waded boldly in. I counted 3-2-1 and started moving—and after a minute, the cold didn’t feel so bad. A small victory, but a victory indeed.

This simple strategy works for more than cold-water swims. We’ve all used it ourselves—or with our children—to push past hesitation.

The message here is that counting down can be a powerful tool for adult decision making, helping us move forward in all areas of life.

Next time you feel stuck, give it a try. And if you’ve been thinking about joining me for our fourth annual Sea, Sand & Soul retreat, now’s a great time—early-morning ocean dips included (optional, of course).

5-4-3-2-1… and go!