My Go-To Reset for Busy Minds
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
What if you could clear your mind, recharge, and get back to your day in just a few minutes?
That’s exactly what happened to me. I was having one of those busy days—tasks piling up, distractions everywhere, and my focus slipping away. I felt like I was stuck in a loop of busy work.
Here’s what I tried to help myself feel more centered and re-energized: the 5-5-5 strategy. It gave me a moment to reset and approach the rest of my day with a fresh perspective.
Want to try the 5-5-5 strategy?
🧘♂️ Start by taking 5 deep breaths
I sat at my desk, closed my eyes for a moment, and took 5 deep breaths. As I breathed in slowly, I could feel my shoulders relax, and my mind quieting just a little bit. The deep breathing helped me regain a sense of calm. I could feel the stress start to melt away as my mind cleared.
🕺 Stand & Stretch for 5 Minutes
I decided to step away from my chair and stretch for 5 minutes. My body was feeling stiff, and I knew I needed a short break from the screen. I stretched my arms, rotated my neck, and walked around a bit.
It wasn’t a huge change, but it definitely helped. After long hours of sitting, I’d built up some tension, and stretching helped release that. It made me feel a little more energized and ready to get back to work.
💬 Say 5 Positive Affirmations
I felt like I needed just a little extra boost to finish the day strong. So, I paused for a moment and said 5 positive affirmations to myself. Out loud, I said:
"I am capable of handling everything on my plate."
"I'm focused and able to prioritize what matters."
"I trust myself to make good decisions."
"I am making progress every day."
"I've got this."
It may sound simple, but taking a moment to speak kindly to yourself can make a real difference in your mindset.
How Often Should You Use the 5-5-5 Strategy?
You can use the 5-5-5 strategy whenever you feel the need for a quick reset. Here are a few moments when it might be helpful:
Start Your Day: Use the 5-5-5 strategy in the morning to set a positive tone and get in the right mindset before diving into your tasks.
Midday Recharge: When you start to feel the afternoon slump, take a brief break with the 5-5-5 strategy to refresh your energy for the rest of the day.
Stressful Moments: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, the strategy can help calm your mind and give you a quick boost.
End Your Day: Before wrapping up your workday, take a few minutes with the 5-5-5 strategy to clear your mind and reflect on what you’ve achieved.
It only takes a few minutes, and you can do it anywhere from two to five times a day, depending on what you need.
Final Thoughts
The 5-5-5 strategy isn’t a perfect solution for everyone, but it’s a simple and effective way to reset your mind and body when you need it. It can help you stay focused, reduce stress, and keep you moving forward—without taking up too much time in your busy day.
So, the next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed, consider giving the 5-5-5 strategy a try. Take a moment to breathe, stretch, and add a bit of positivity. It’s a small break that might help you finish your day feeling a little more relaxed and ready to take on the next task.
Let's Connect
What’s something that helps you reset during a busy day? I’d love to hear your thoughts—and if you’d like to connect and share ideas, feel free to reach out.
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Disclaimer:
The 5-5-5 strategy is a general approach to resetting your mind and body. While it’s intended for everyday use, it may not be suitable for all situations or individuals and does not replace professional advice. For more personalized support, consider consulting with a professional.