Why We Love It:

Robbins doesn’t just throw the rule at you; she backs it up with science and real-life examples. She explains how our brains sabotage us with hesitation and fear, and how something as simple as counting down can interrupt those negative patterns. Her writing style is like listening to a motivational speaker who’s also your no-nonsense friend. She peppers the book with personal stories and anecdotes that make the concepts resonate deeply.

“The 5 Second Rule” is a must-read for anyone who struggles with procrastination or self-doubt. Robbins doesn’t just inspire you with motivational speeches; she gives you a tool you can use right away. Whether it’s getting out of bed in the morning or tackling a daunting task at work, the 5 Second Rule can be applied to almost any situation where you feel stuck. It’s not about making huge changes overnight; it’s about taking small, decisive steps that can lead to big transformations in your life.

Favorite Quotes:

“Hesitation is the kiss of death. You might hesitate for a just nanosecond, but that’s all it takes. That one small hesitation triggers a mental system that’s designed to stop you. And it happens in less than – you guessed it – five seconds.” – Mel Robbins

“If you can’t get yourself out of bed, then you’ll never be able to pursue all of the other changes that you want to make in your life. And if you take that simple step of taking control of your mornings, you’ll catalyze a chain of events that leads to change everywhere.” – Mel Robbins

“Anytime there’s something you know you should do, but you feel uncertain, afraid, or overwhelmed … Just take control by counting backwards 5- 4- 3- 2- 1. That’ll quiet your mind. Then, move when you get to “1.” – Mel Robbins

Book Jacket Summary:

The 5 Second Rule is the secret to changing anything about your life. You can use the Rule and its countdown method to break any bad habit, interrupt self-doubt and negative self-talk, and push yourself to take the actions that will change your life.

• If you struggle with motivation…
• If you are tired of doubting yourself… 
• If you know what you want but can’t make yourself go get it…

You NEED The 5 Second Rule. The secret to changing your life isn’t knowing what to do–it’s knowing how to make yourself do it. It’s a simple tool, backed by research, and it has changed the lives of millions. It will work for you too.

Using the science of habits, riveting stories, and surprising facts from some of the most famous moments in history, Mel Robbins will explain the power of a five second decision. You’ll also meet and inspired by hundreds of people around the world who are using the Rule to achieve their goals, reach their potential, and chase their dreams.

In the book, you’ll learn the inspiring and relatable story of how Mel invented the 5 Second Rule during the worst moment of her life, when her anxiety and finances were so bad, she could barely get out of bed. Since creating the Rule, Mel has shared it with audiences around the world, the most respected brands, and people who want to make real and lasting change.

You are just five seconds away from a totally different life.