Change Your Life 5 Seconds at a Time: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, GO!

Mel Robbins’ “The 5 Second Rule” is an entertaining book helping readers take tangible steps to improve their lives. I read the book last year and recommend it. She is one of those writers that you would want to also follow on social media for occasional insights.

The book offers interesting knowledge and I think you can make the most of it by putting the concepts into practice. If you haven’t read the book, I recommend reading it and if you just want a quick overview, watch this summary video.

Follow this three-month self-improvement plan to reap the rewards. Take it as a starter kit or even a template. Copy and paste it into a sheet and start editing it to customize it as it relates to your life.

Month 1:

– Week 1: Start your day with the 5 Second Rule. When your alarm goes off, count backward from 5 to 1 and get up immediately, without hitting snooze. This will help you start your day with intention and momentum.

– Week 2-3: Identify a habit that you want to develop or a goal that you want to achieve. Use the 5 Second Rule to take action towards this habit or goal every day. For example, if you want to exercise more, count down from 5 to 1 and put on your workout clothes as soon as you finish counting.

– Week 4: Use the 5 Second Rule to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Do something that scares you or makes you uncomfortable, such as speaking up in a meeting or introducing yourself to someone new.

Month 2:

– Week 1-2: Practice the 5 Second Rule when you feel stressed or anxious. When you start to feel overwhelmed, count down from 5 to 1 and take a deep breath, then take action to address the situation.

– Week 3-4: Focus on building positive relationships. Use the 5 Second Rule to start conversations with people you admire or respect, or to reach out to old friends that you’ve lost touch with.

Month 3:

– Week 1-2: Use the 5 Second Rule to identify and eliminate negative self-talk. Whenever you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, count down from 5 to 1 and replace those thoughts with positive affirmations.

– Week 3-4: Focus on gratitude and mindfulness. Use the 5 Second Rule to take a few moments each day to appreciate the things you’re grateful for and to focus on the present moment.

Remember, the key to success with the 5 Second Rule is to use it consistently and intentionally. It’s not easy but you can do it. By making the 5 Second Rule a habit, you can create positive changes in your life and achieve your goals. Work with friends, family or colleagues–share the rule and make a plan together, holding each other accountable to it by regular check-ins on your progress. Working as a team will help you stick to the plan.

What is your next step from here? 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go for it!