5-Minute Timer Beats Procrastination

A technique using a physical hourglass timer to overcome procrastination by committing to just 5 minutes of work. The method leverages psychology of getting started vs finishing tasks.

Core Insight About Procrastination

• Procrastination is primarily about struggling to start tasks, not complete them
• Once people begin a task, momentum and flow typically carry them through
• The key is finding ways to hack your brain into just starting

The Hourglass Method

• Use a physical 5-minute hourglass timer on your desk
• Commit to working on task for just 5 minutes
• Tell yourself genuinely that you only have to do 5 minutes
• Usually once started, you'll continue past the 5 minutes
• If not, at least you did 5 minutes of work

Why Physical Hourglass vs Phone Timer

• Phone has too many distractions and notifications
• Phone is a multitasking tool that can break focus
• Physical hourglass has single purpose - tracking time
• Provides visual reminder without digital distractions

Real World Application Example

• Used for filming YouTube videos
• Creator would commit to just 5 minutes of filming
• Often would get into flow state and continue filming
• Even if stopped after 5 minutes, still made progress
• Removes mental barrier of committing to full task

Key Benefits

• Makes starting feel less intimidating
• Creates momentum through small wins
• Provides clear endpoint if needed
• Removes excuse of "not having enough time"
• Helps build consistent work habits

The core principle is that getting started is the hardest part - once you begin, continuing becomes much easier. The hourglass provides a concrete tool to overcome that initial resistance.