The High 5 Habit

Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit

by Mel Robbins

4.7(7,509 ratings)

11 min read

Brief overview

This book explores how a single, uplifting habit can shift your mindset from self-criticism toward self-compassion. By pairing simple daily actions with deeper insights about motivation, it offers a refreshing path to overcoming anxiety, guilt, and insecurity. Expect to come away with practical tools for building confidence, a greater sense of resilience, and a clear plan for treating yourself with more kindness each day.

Introduction

Have you ever felt you’re too critical of yourself when you look in the mirror? If so, you’re definitely not alone. Many of us start our mornings feeling anxious, unmotivated, or stuck in self-doubt.

This book proposes an unexpectedly powerful idea: each day, give yourself a literal high five. While it might sound silly, this tiny physical act is a gateway to deeper changes. It ignites a spark of self-acceptance and positivity before everything else crowds in.

By focusing on a simple gesture, you learn to override old habits of self-criticism. No matter what shape your life is currently in, there’s an opportunity to connect with yourself and start your day with encouragement.

In the pages ahead, you’ll discover how negative thought loops form, why guilt can block you from living fully, and how small wins build huge momentum. Let’s begin by looking at how a humble mirror and your own reflection can reshape your self-image.

You deserve kindness from the only person who is with you 24/7: yourself.

The Mirror High Five

You’ve probably high-fived a friend or colleague during a celebration. It’s natural, fun, and signals approval. Now imagine giving that same sign of support to yourself. As odd as it might feel at first, the effect can be surprisingly powerful.

Holding up your hand to the mirror sends a timeless message of encouragement and pride. Instead of noticing every perceived flaw, you create a pause that redirects your attention to something positive and nurturing.

Some people report feeling a genuine mood lift right away. Others say it feels silly at first but soon becomes a welcome habit. Either way, taking a moment to celebrate yourself helps you remember that you are worthy of kindness and trust—even on tough days.

If you want more celebration, validation, love, acceptance, and optimism, you must practice giving those things to yourself.

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What is The High 5 Habit about?

The High 5 Habit is built on the simple yet powerful act of greeting your own reflection with a high five each morning. By applying this one small gesture, you tap into a mindset of self-compassion, interrupt negative self-talk, and reinforce positive beliefs about who you are. This practice creates a daily routine that breaks down old habits of self-criticism and replaces them with healthier, uplifting attitudes.

Author Mel Robbins draws on scientific findings to show how this habit reconditions your brain’s filters, helping you notice opportunities and win small victories that build momentum. Rather than passively waiting for motivation, you’ll discover consistent steps to ease anxiety, let go of guilt, and become more resilient when facing life’s challenges. In doing so, you create a purposeful shift from self-doubt toward a kinder, more encouraging inner dialogue.

Review of The High 5 Habit

Robbins’ greatest strength is her ability to keep everything accessible, blending down-to-earth stories with research-based insights. The High 5 Habit’s unique focus on a simple mirror gesture makes it less intimidating than complex self-help routines. Each chapter offers practical ideas for reinforcing a compassionate outlook, including how to train your brain to see more options and keep track of small daily wins.

Beyond being a feel-good method, the book shines by showing how this daily practice shifts your overall perspective. You’ll find it easy to incorporate into a busy schedule, and the writing style is both direct and encouraging, making it suitable for newcomers to personal development. For anyone seeking a reliable way to nurture confidence and self-acceptance, The High 5 Habit is a strong and uplifting addition to your reading list.

Who should read The High 5 Habit?

Professionals who struggle with stress and need a quick self-care practice to build resilience
Busy parents seeking a straightforward way to start the day on a positive note
Self-improvement enthusiasts looking for science-backed strategies to foster confidence
Individuals who want a gentle but effective approach to overcoming negative self-talk

About the author

Mel Robbins is a renowned American author, motivational speaker, and podcast host. She holds a J.D. degree from Boston College Law School and has over 25 years of experience in personal development and transformation. Robbins is best known for her TEDx Talk "How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over" and her bestselling books, including "The 5 Second Rule" and "The High 5 Habit". Her work has been translated into 41 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide, earning her numerous awards, including the Gracie Award and the Webby Award.