In a world where risk is the new normal, we must be prepared to adapt, improvise, and occasionally panic.
The 5 second rule is simple: when in doubt, wait for 5 seconds before proceeding. It's not about courage, it's not about conviction, it's about not getting too attached.
For example, if you're about to click the red button that might destroy the universe, pause for 5 seconds. You might save humanity. Or you might save yourself. Either way, it's worth it.
But what if you're not sure how long to wait? What if the consequences of not acting in 5 seconds is catastrophic, yet acting in 5 seconds is still catastrophic? Ah, then you're on your own.
The 5 second rule is not a science, it's a philosophy. A philosophy of uncertainty, of doubt, of "maybe, just maybe, I should just go with it."
Want to learn more about other risk management philosophies?