5-5-5 Rule Couples Therapy Summary

The 5-5-5 rule in marriage is a mindfulness and communication tool that encourages couples to pause and ask themselves: Will this matter in 5 minutes, 5 days, or 5 years? It’s designed to help de-escalate conflict and shift focus to what truly matters.

5-5-5 Rule Couples Therapy Detail

This simple mental check-in can be especially useful during moments of frustration or disagreement. By stepping back and considering the long-term significance of a current stressor, couples can avoid unnecessary arguments and prioritize connection over conflict. In couples therapy, I often teach mindfulness and perspective-shifting tools like the 5-5-5 rule to help partners regulate emotions and practice compassion. It’s not about avoiding hard conversations—it’s about approaching them with intention and calm awareness.