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The 5 Second Rule: Transform your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 12,423 ratings

How to enrich your life and destroy doubt in five seconds.

Throughout your life, you've had parents, coaches, teachers, friends, and mentors who have pushed you to be better than your excuses and bigger than your fears. What if the secret to having the confidence and courage to enrich your life and work is simply knowing how to push yourself?

Using the science of habits, riveting stories, and surprising facts from some of the most famous moments in history, art, and business, Mel Robbins will explain the power of a "push moment". Then, she'll give you one simple tool you can use to become your greatest self.

It takes just five seconds to use this tool, and every time you do you'll be in great company. More than eight million people have watched Mel's TEDx Talk, and executives inside of the world's largest brands are using the tool to increase productivity, collaboration, and engagement.

In The 5 Second Rule, you'll discover it takes just five seconds to:

  • Become confident
  • Break the habit of procrastination and self-doubt
  • Beat fear and uncertainty
  • Stop worrying and feel happier
  • Share your ideas with courage

The 5 Second Rule is a simple, one-size-fits-all solution for the one problem we all face - we hold ourselves back.

The secret isn't knowing what to do - it's knowing how to make yourself do it.

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Product details

Listening Length 7 hours and 35 minutes
Author Mel Robbins
Narrator Mel Robbins
Audible.com Release Date February 22, 2017
Publisher Mel Robbins Productions Inc.
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B06W9M3QDJ
Best Sellers Rank #179 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#16 in Motivational Self-Help (Books)
#16 in Personal Transformation Self-Help
#18 in Personal Success

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
12,423 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book motivating and relatable. They appreciate the simple, effective 5 second rule that works for everyone. The author's personal story resonates with them. However, some readers feel the ideas are repetitive and boring after a few chapters. There are mixed opinions on the writing quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

611 customers mention "Inspirational content"584 positive27 negative

Customers find the book motivating and relatable. They say it provides a simple tool they can use to change their lives. The psychological theory behind the 5 Second Rule is explained well. The book helps them stay on tasks and get going in the morning. It's considered the best self-help book of the year, with great examples of everyday courage.

"I really loved the book! Great way to get up and motivated to focus on reducing any fear and just go enjoy life!" Read more

"Love her so much! Love the book! Very inspirational and helpful" Read more

"...A simple, easy to remember tool, that is highly effective not only with anxiety but in all areas of my life...." Read more

"Empowering, practical guide that helped me to break through hesitation and self-doubt...." Read more

271 customers mention "Simplicity"262 positive9 negative

Customers find the book simple and easy to understand. They appreciate the straightforward rules and examples. The book is described as an easy read with inspiring stories.

"...This was the answer I was looking for. A simple, easy to remember tool, that is highly effective not only with anxiety but in all areas of my..." Read more

"...That said, the rule itself is simple, and the examples Robbins supplies from the many people who have benefited by it speak for themselves...." Read more

"...This is the best one ever because she gives u a simple tool u can use to change your life any day & anytime 5 seconds at a time!" Read more

"...be a blog or you could view the Ted talk, as some have said, but I like the details and the multiple applications she describes...." Read more

122 customers mention "Effectiveness"122 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's 5 second rule effective and powerful. It explains the rationale for why it works and gives examples of how it affected the author's life. The information provided is useful and beneficial, inspiring productivity, creativity, and passion. Readers say the technique solves issues that were holding them back.

"...THIS IS SO POWERFUL...." Read more

"The Positives: * The technique actually works. I used it to stop a 40-year nail biting habit...." Read more

"...The method sounds simplistic, but it does work! Sometimes simple is exactly what you need!" Read more

"...It's inspiring message from all the stories are simply uplifting and powerful...." Read more

43 customers mention "Relatability"43 positive0 negative

Customers find the book relatable and honest. They appreciate the author's personal story and how it resonates with them. The book is full of anecdotes and heartfelt stories, making it a short, heartfelt read that speaks to their hearts.

"...instincts, goal related impulses, focus, and I think most importantly on feelings...." Read more

"...used it through the day & truly it has helped me with my anxiety & emotions & getting stuff done!" Read more

"...It's simple but not easy - Mel finds a tone to be sympathetic and your biggest cheerleader while showing you how to kick your excuses to the curve...." Read more

"...as examples of the rule took a bit of getting used to but became very touching and inspiring...." Read more

39 customers mention "5 second rule"39 positive0 negative

Customers like the 5 second rule. They find it practical and useful. The concept is great and can work for anyone. The book provides different ways to use the rule and examples of how it shifts you into focus mode.

"...Robbins is down-to-earth and her explanation about how the 5-second rule works is true and it’s so stupid-simple that anyone can use it to..." Read more

"...I liked the book as it gave many different stories, different ways to use the rule and some of the stories really hit close to home...." Read more

"The actual 5 Second Rule is great, and it about that long to explain it: 5 seconds...." Read more

"...This is that book. I love the concept of the 5 second rule, I think it’s great!..." Read more

44 customers mention "Word quality"20 positive24 negative

Customers have different views on the book's word quality. Some find it well-written and understandable, saying the author explains the idea clearly and concisely. Others mention issues with spelling and grammar errors that disrupt the flow of the text.

"...stream of "social proof" via the social media posts broke the flow of the text, and constantly took me out of the experience...." Read more

"...Mel explains it thoroughly but doesn't hit you over the head with a brick...." Read more

"...Even the way the book is written is annoying, with cut and past social media postings from people praising how wonderful she is and how counting..." Read more

"...My favorite aspect about the book is that there message is simple and clear...." Read more

37 customers mention "Readability"25 positive12 negative

Customers have different experiences with the book's readability. Some find it a quick and positive read, while others say it drags on and is difficult to finish.

"...u a simple tool u can use to change your life any day & anytime 5 seconds at a time!" Read more

"...to fend off some of my own personal demons and felt better for having read the book. I consider that a win...." Read more

"...It eventually got hard to slog through and was dragging by the end because it seemed like filler to hit a page or word count by that point...." Read more

"...The only positive point is that you can finish it in one afternoon." Read more

59 customers mention "Book repetitiveness"8 positive51 negative

Customers find the book repetitive. They find the ideas and stories redundant and irritating. Readers mention the book is frustrating and hard to maintain.

"...There is so much repetition and to have “testimonials” on almost every page was a bit excessive...." Read more

"...and not finish it so I am hoping it gets better but it’s a struggle with each page...." Read more

"A friend recommended this book to me as well. I found its ideas somewhat repetitive...." Read more

"pretty good book! a little repetitive at times but overall the message and lessons learned were amazing. Would definitely recommend." Read more

Loveeee it !!
5 out of 5 stars
Loveeee it !!
I loveeeee this book !!! I’m definitely glad I bought it and have read through it , it’s worth the money !! The hard cover is nice
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on December 25, 2024
    I really loved the book! Great way to get up and motivated to focus on reducing any fear and just go enjoy life!
  • Reviewed in the United States on November 19, 2024
    Love her so much! Love the book! Very inspirational and helpful
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 15, 2018
    If you’re struggling with anxiety/panic attacks, I highly recommend this book. There is a section in the book dedicated to it and it’s been a lifesaver for me. I developed anxiety/panic attacks about six months ago, felt totally out of control of the situation, and was starting to get depressed over it.

    I was aware of Mel Robbins but I didn't realize to put the 5 Second Rule together to combat anxiety until I came across a Youtube video of how she used the rule to get over her own struggles with anxiety. I cleared out a lot of the past issues that was holding me down, and I felt like I should be in a better place. However, I still felt anxious and the panic attacks were still happening (those brain patterns had set in) and it was starting to get worse.

    Prior, I have tried everything from letting the 'feelings' of anxiousness go away on its own, went to therapy sessions, staying 'calm', and tried other 'tricks' and I never felt empowered in any of those situations and it was also temporary wins before the anxiety would grip my life again. Having anxiety as a constant state of mind was unacceptable to me, but I didn’t know how to break the cycle for good.

    After I heard Mel speak about how she overcame her anxiety/panic attacks with this simple tool, I bought her book immediately. It's been about ten days since I started to implement the rule to combat anxiety and I will most likely update several months later down the road. I have to be honest, I was a bit skeptical about the 5 Second Rule being effective for anxiety. So far it's pulled me out of the last dark cloud I was experiencing in a relatively short time. Most importantly, I am in control and that makes me feel empowered. This was the answer I was looking for. A simple, easy to remember tool, that is highly effective not only with anxiety but in all areas of my life.

    You are going to use the 5 Second Rule a lot, throughout the day. I repeated this about 30-50 times (maybe even more) for the first week. I probably use the rule about 20 times a day in my day to day life about 2 weeks into using the rule. I also used this rule in social settings with great success. I was able to be in the present moment and be engaged with the conversation I was having with people. I am very optimistic and hopeful, feelings I haven’t felt for the last six months.

    UPDATE:
    I still use this rule but less so for my anxiety (anxiety and I like acquaintances than best buddies now). I've been using it more as a motivational tool to procrastinate less on tasks I don't 'feel' like doing. It still works great!
    104 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2017
    The last few years I have been on a journey to learn to overcome procrastination, be more productive, and realize my highest potential. I have been learning many great strategies and methods for achieving these goals, but, like the old saying goes, "The road to Hell is paved with good intentions!" At some point you have to overcome inertia and actually start practicing those strategies and methods. I believe the 5 Second Rule is the key that I need to push myself off the bubble of good intentions and on to the road to actually doing what I am learning.

    I would have given this book a fifth star, but I was disappointed in one thing: the lack of citations from all the research the author did concerning the techniques and strategies she lays out. For many readers this won't matter, but I am the type that likes to understand the science behind such things. That said, the rule itself is simple, and the examples Robbins supplies from the many people who have benefited by it speak for themselves. I honestly believe that this book could be just what most people who are stuck in unsatisfactory lives need to get themselves unstuck.
    6 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 24, 2024
    Empowering, practical guide that helped me to break through hesitation and self-doubt. As someone who couldn't convince myself to get out of bed each morning, counting down from five has helped me change my narrative.
    7 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 20, 2024
    I have read thousands of self-help books in my lifetime. This is the best one ever because she gives u a simple tool u can use to change your life any day & anytime 5 seconds at a time!
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 28, 2017
    I am so torn. I love the #5SecondRule. Mel Robbins is a rock star. I love her TED Talk, and other interviews I've seen her on. The book is filled with solid, actionable information that I am putting into action in my own life with awesome success. Kudos Mel Robbins! For that I'd give it 5 stars, no doubt.

    The constant stream of "social proof" via the social media posts broke the flow of the text, and constantly took me out of the experience. One at the end of each chapter to bring home how to integrate the information into the reader's life? Sure. But one almost every page, and sometimes twice? C'mon! The format was simply too long for the amount of actionable information given, and the social proof stuff felt like fillers to justify the length of the book. Another reviewer wrote that the actual information given could've easily fit into a blog post, and I think they're correct. For that I'd give it 3 stars.

    For the love of humanity, somebody - preferably a PROFESSIONAL editor - please, please, PLEASE edit this freaking book! I have a rule that once I start a book, I finish it, but the editorial mistakes were so pervasive that it was almost unreadable. (And I'm not talking about the "UR" or other grammatical errors on the social media posts either!) It got so bad that it actually started to piss me off. So much so that I actually took note of the publisher, and will avoid books from them in the future because of the epic editorial fail. If Ms. Robbins paid for an editor, she got ripped off. I was so grateful to reach the last page because it meant I was through with the book, but I don't think any author wants people to close their book in relief to be done with it. For that, I'd give it -0 stars if that were possible, and demand that the publisher's slew of proofreaders/editors give her her money back. The publisher did her an enormous disservice. Shame on them!

    I've actually given this book as a gift to several people I know who will get a lot of it, but it comes with the caveat that the editing is sub par, for sure.
    1,245 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • unknown
    5.0 out of 5 stars Knowledge and self compassion
    Reviewed in Canada on July 27, 2024
    Amazing book, self development, self help. Mel is the best writer ever, relevant information that can help everyone, Makes you feel great, think, inciteful messages and an easy read. Highly recommend for everyone and would buy many copies for gifts to empower others and help support
  • Rooney
    5.0 out of 5 stars 5 seconds to change your life
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 16, 2023
    "The 5 Second Rule: Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage" by Mel Robbins is a life-altering book that provides a simple yet powerful framework for taking immediate action, overcoming self-doubt, and building the confidence needed to achieve personal and professional success.

    At its core, the book introduces the concept of the "5 Second Rule," a deceptively simple but remarkably effective tool. The rule is straightforward: when you have an idea or an impulse to take action, count down from five to one and then physically move to act on it. This simple technique disrupts hesitation and activates the prefrontal cortex, pushing you to take action before self-doubt and procrastination can set in.

    One of the standout features of this book is its relatability. Mel Robbins shares her own journey, complete with setbacks and personal struggles, which adds authenticity to her message. Her anecdotes and those of others who have used the 5 Second Rule illustrate its universal applicability, from achieving career goals to improving relationships and boosting self-confidence.

    "The 5 Second Rule" doesn't just stop at motivation; it delves into the science behind why it works. Robbins explains the neurological mechanisms at play, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the brain's role in decision-making and how to harness that knowledge for personal growth.

    What makes this book truly transformative is its immediate applicability. As readers, we're encouraged to put the 5 Second Rule into practice from the very beginning. This hands-on approach allows us to witness its impact in real-time, which is both eye-opening and inspiring.

    Robbins' writing style is engaging and relatable. She combines practical advice with a healthy dose of humor and compassion, creating a book that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend who genuinely wants to see you succeed.

    One minor consideration is that while the 5 Second Rule is effective for many situations, it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Some challenges may require additional strategies or interventions, but the book does acknowledge this and encourages readers to seek professional help when needed.

    In conclusion, "The 5 Second Rule" is a game-changer for those seeking to overcome self-doubt, take immediate action, and transform their lives. Mel Robbins' straightforward and scientifically backed approach provides a powerful tool for breaking free from the chains of hesitation and procrastination. With its relatable anecdotes, engaging writing style, and immediate applicability, this book empowers readers to unlock their potential and build the confidence needed to pursue their dreams. It's a must-read for anyone ready to take control of their life and embark on a journey of personal and professional growth.
  • Jean-Marie Moes
    5.0 out of 5 stars Thank you ❣️
    Reviewed in France on January 29, 2022
    Mel,

    I have to first thank "Big Al" Schreiter for his referral to your book.

    Now, your turn, Mel. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. These 5 seconds have done more for me in a week than all the previous self-help "methods" I barely applied before. And believe me, having just turned 63, I have tried quite a few.

    Truth be told, it's indeed simple but in no way easy. There are ups and downs, "what the heck moments", and then 5-4-3-2-1 kicks in and gives me the courage to face those times I would have avoided before.

    Dear readers, if you feel like you're stuck in your life, just give the 5 Seconds Rule a chance to prove you there's light at the end of the tunnel.

    Thank you, Mel.
    Be well
    Jean-Marie
  • Siknda
    5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing examples and powerful content.
    Reviewed in Spain on January 25, 2022
    Thank you very much Mel for this exciting and inspiring book. Looking for

    Thank you very much Mel for this exciting and inspiring book.
  • Monica
    5.0 out of 5 stars Inspira.
    Reviewed in Mexico on March 28, 2020
    Me encantó el libro. Te inspira a tomar acción y hacer los cambios en tu vida que quieres hacer y no has tenido el valor de hacer. Desde que empiezas a leer comienzas a aplicar la regla en tu día a día. Lo recomiendo a todos. Todos tenemos cosas que queremos lograr.