A Use the 2-Minute Rule to Overcome Inertia

 A

Use the 2-Minute Rule to Overcome Inertia

What it is:
If a task takes 2 minutes or less, do it immediately.
If it takes longer, start it for just 2 minutes.

Why it works:
Inertia comes from starting, not doing. Committing to 2 minutes lowers resistance, bypasses procrastination, and often creates momentum to continue.

How to apply it (step-by-step):

1. Pick one task you’re avoiding.

2. Set a timer for 2 minutes.

3. Work only until the timer ends.

4. Decide freely: stop—or keep going.

Examples:

• Writing → open the document and write one sentence

• Exercise → put on workout clothes and stretch

• Studying → read one paragraph

• Email → draft the first line

• Cleaning → clear one surface

Key mindset shift:
You’re not committing to finishing—only to starting. Starting is the real win.

Pro tip:
Pair it with identity thinking:

“I’m the kind of person who starts things.”

Most of the time, once inertia is broken, motivation follows.