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The Rule of 5: The Simple Habit Strategy Top CEOs Swear By
November 12, 2025
I hear the same thing from many leaders:
“From the outside, it looks like I’m doing great. But honestly? I’m frustrated, tired, and stuck.”
Most of us already know one small step that could move us forward. Something we could start doing (or stop doing). But we don’t do it. The problem isn’t knowing what to do. It’s starting.
Here’s a trick that’s helped hundreds of CEOs I’ve coached. Hold up one hand and count your fingers.
By Bill Hoogterp
Five. That’s your anchor. Your reminder.
Now say it out loud: “Power of Five.”
The 5-Second Start: Action Before Motivation
Authors Mel Robbins (The 5 Second Rule) and James Clear (Atomic Habits) agree on one powerful truth: Action comes before motivation.
If you want to run, commit to one micro-action: Put on your running shoes. That’s it. For five seconds.
Sounds silly, until it works. Shoes on, you think, “I’ll walk to the mailbox.” Then, “Maybe to the corner.” Before you know it, you’re running. Momentum builds on movement, not motivation.
Starting is the spark. Five seconds is the fuse.
Apply the Power of Five Anywhere
- Hydration: Take five sips of water first thing in the morning.
- Healthy eating: Begin with five bites of something nourishing - oats, greens, fruit. (Your body reacts most to the first thing it senses.)
- Learning: Learn five new words or facts daily. (Fun fact: over 12 million Duolingo users have kept learning streaks for a year or more.)
- Finances: Save $5, €5, or ¥5 a day. Tiny consistency compounds faster than motivation.
- Writing: Write five words toward your book or idea. Don’t aim for perfect. Aim for movement.
- Patience: When someone cuts you off, count to five before reacting. Choose response over reaction.
- Work: Spend five focused minutes on your hardest project before checking email. “Eat the frog” first.
Now make it personal:
What’s your version of the Power of Five?
Now make it personal: