In the noise of everyday life, we rush. We react. We choose without pausing—pushed by fear, habit, or the weight of expectations. But what if we stopped? Just for thirty seconds. To breathe. To reflect. To choose differently. Those 30 Seconds isn’t just a book—it’s a gentle invitation to reclaim the pause. Inspired by the Bhagavad Gita and woven with stories from mythology, lived moments, and quiet heartbreaks, it explores the unseen crossroads we all face—between who we are, and who we’re becoming. These stories sit beside you—in the middle of an argument, on a sleepless night, or in that whisper of doubt—reminding you are not alone. Because sometimes, life doesn’t change in years. It changes in seconds. One breath. One pause. One choice. What if your turning point is just thirty seconds away? And what if the life you’re searching for has been waiting, just beyond that pause?
When I first came across Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur, I was intrigued by its promise to transform fleeting moments of pause into profound shifts in perspective. As someone constantly bombarded by notifications, racing thoughts, and never-ending to‑do lists, I’ve often felt overwhelmed by the pace of modern life. Mathur’s invitation to simply pause—for half a minute—felt almost revolutionary. Could such a brief interlude really make a tangible difference?
Expanding the Pause: Core Concept and Themes At the heart of this book lies a deceptively simple idea: before reacting—whether with words, emotions, or judgments—grant yourself thirty seconds of mindful stillness. Mathur grounds this practice in the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to act with clarity rather than impulse. She threads this philosophical root through contemporary mindfulness research, showing how even a short pause can engage the prefrontal cortex, temper the amygdala’s fight‑or‑flight response, and open the door to more balanced decision‑making.
Writing Style and Structure One of the book’s greatest strengths is Mathur’s warm, conversational voice. She writes as if we’re having tea together, her tone alternating between playful and profound. Chapters are structured in three parts: a mythological vignette, a personal anecdote, and a practical exercise. This rhythm keeps the narrative engaging: one moment I was absorbed in an ancient fable of sages who paused before decisive battles, and the next, I was jotting down prompts to anchor my own daily practice.
I particularly appreciated the inclusion of simple worksheets and reflection questions at the end of each chapter. While I sometimes longed for deeper dives into certain stories—especially the mythological parallels—the concise format ensured that the book never felt dense or academic.
Personal Reflections and Real‑World Applications Putting the thirty‑second rule into action led to surprising breakthroughs in my own life. During a recent family group chat that devolved into misunderstandings, I paused before typing a frustrated reply. Instead of fueling the argument, I responded with a clarifying question that diffused tension and invited genuine dialogue. Another evening, insomnia had me trapped in a loop of “what‑if” worries; I set a timer for thirty seconds of mindful breathing, which grounded my thoughts enough to drift into sleep.
Key Takeaways Micro‑pauses matter: Even half a minute of stillness can recalibrate our emotional compass.
Accessible practice: No special equipment or prior experience needed—just awareness and intention.
Philosophical roots: The blend of Vedic wisdom and modern neuroscience lends the practice both depth and credibility.
Conclusion Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur is more than a self‑help book; it’s an invitation to reclaim agency over our most automatic responses. Through relatable anecdotes, clear exercises, and thoughtful reflections, Mathur guides readers toward a practice that—though brief—holds immense transformative potential. For anyone seeking a straightforward, culturally rich approach to mindfulness, this book offers a gentle yet powerful roadmap. Thirty seconds may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but as I’ve discovered, those thirty seconds can change everything.
✨ A Self-help Book That Invites You to Pause and Transform
In a world that rewards speed, Those 30 Seconds is a quiet rebellion.
It doesn’t scream for your attention. Instead, it leans in softly and asks—what if your turning point was just one breath away?
Parul Mathur’s deeply introspective book isn’t your typical self-help guide filled with to-do lists and success formulas. It’s more of a companion—one that sits beside you during moments of doubt, dilemmas, grief, or growth, and urges you to pause before you choose.
📖 What’s Inside? Each chapter begins with a verse from the Bhagavad Gita—not as a sermon, but as a lens to explore moral crossroads. From mythology to modern history, the book brings together timeless reflections through: 🔹 Draupadi’s fierce restraint 🔹 Arjuna’s hesitation before the battlefield 🔹 Steve Jobs’ moments of introspection 🔹 Julius Caesar’s fall to ambition 🔹 The Cuban Missile Crisis and decisions made in stillness 🔹 Napoleon’s unraveling driven by impulse
These aren’t just anecdotes—they are powerful metaphors showing how stillness often precedes the strongest shifts.
🧠 What Sets This Book Apart? It’s not about “doing more” but being present. It champions micro-moments—those 30 seconds between reaction and response—as potential life-changers. Whether you’re battling doubt, navigating choices, or reflecting on your purpose, this book teaches you the quiet art of thoughtful delay.
It’s a rare book that makes space for your thoughts while offering its own. It asks questions, but doesn’t rush the answers. And in doing so, it becomes more than a read—it becomes a ritual.
💬 Favorite Theme? The way it balances personal stories with grand historical turning points is masterful. It shows how the mind—our constant companion—can be our greatest ally or worst enemy, depending on how we choose to engage with it.
📌 Final Thoughts: This book won’t fix your life in a day. But it will teach you how to listen to yourself more clearly, how to stand still amidst storms, and how to make decisions from a place of awareness—not fear or habit.
And maybe, just maybe—that pause will change everything.
🌿 What if the next 30 seconds could shape the rest of your life?
Those 30 Seconds is a non-fiction self-help book of around 215 pages, written for those who often find themselves overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, anger, or impulsive reactions. Its strength lies in its simple, accessible writing style, making it ideal for beginners or anyone looking for clarity and calm in their day-to-day lives.
The book is divided into 14 insightful chapters, each highlighting the transformative power of a simple concept: the pause. Whether it's pausing before reacting, speaking, or making a life decision — the author emphasizes how just a few seconds of mindfulness can shift our perspective, prevent regret, and lead to better outcomes.
One of the most admirable elements of the book is how each chapter opens with a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, followed by its practical interpretation. This spiritual touch not only enriches the reading experience but also adds a layer of timeless wisdom to the book's message. Each chapter includes a mix of real-life historical anecdotes, fictional scenarios, and reflective stories that illustrate the importance of those few seconds of intentional pause. These stories are thought-provoking and relatable. However, by the time I reached the end, I felt that the core message began to feel slightly repetitive, as most stories circled back to the same conclusion — the value of pausing. While this could be a bit monotonous for some readers, it also reinforces the book’s central idea with consistency.
That said, I genuinely appreciated the author’s effort and the positive, grounding energy of the book. It doesn’t try to be complex or preachy — it’s honest, gentle, and practical. If you often struggle with racing thoughts, quick temper, emotional impulsiveness, or low self-worth, this book could serve as a quiet companion, helping you understand the power of slowing down. It’s also a great pick for readers who are on their self-awareness or personality development journey. Highly recommended, especially for beginners in the self-help genre. This book reminds us that sometimes, it only takes thirty seconds of presence to change everything.
📙 Book Review: Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur 🌿 A Book That Teaches You the Power of the Pause
How many decisions in life do we make on autopilot—rushed, reactive, or simply out of habit? Those 30 Seconds gently interrupts that flow.
This isn’t just another self-help book. It’s a quiet, thoughtful companion that asks: 🕰️ What if your life could shift in just half a minute?
Parul Mathur takes you through moments of hesitation—the kind that often decide the course of your relationships, purpose, and peace of mind. With a soulful blend of mythology, real-world history, and modern struggles, the book offers not advice—but awareness.
🔍 What You’ll Experience: Each chapter begins with a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, unfolding into stories that span from Arjuna’s moment of crisis, Draupadi’s poise under pressure, to Steve Jobs’ clarity through chaos and the fragile calm of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
These aren’t grand lessons—they are small but profound reflections on the space between stimulus and choice.
📚 The Core Idea? Life doesn’t always change over years. Sometimes, it changes in a moment of stillness.
The author calls this the “30-second pause”—the brief window between what happens to you and how you choose to respond. Whether it’s the fall of Napoleon or a fight with someone you love, it’s often not the event but your reaction that shapes what comes next.
💡 Why I Loved It: This book doesn’t push productivity or preach positivity. It holds space for uncertainty. It acknowledges fear, doubt, hesitation—and then gently shows you how to sit with it, breathe through it, and choose from a place of clarity.
It reminds you that growth isn’t loud. It’s quiet. It happens in small, unseen moments—the ones we often overlook.
🎯 Final Takeaway: If you’re feeling lost, rushed, or emotionally scattered—Those 30 Seconds is a book that won’t give you all the answers, but it will teach you how to ask the right questions. It invites you to slow down, reflect deeply, and reclaim your power—one mindful pause at a time.
🧘♂️ Sometimes the bravest thing you can do… is wait thirty seconds.
🍀Book- Those 30 seconds 🍀Author - Parul Mathur 🍀Review - 30 seconds can change your life. They can shift your perspective, lighten the burden on your heart, give you hope, and help you accept life with grace.
Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur is an eye-opener, full of wisdom and thoughtfulness. It takes readers on a journey where the author invites us to meet characters from mythology and history.
The book begins with Gandhari’s accusation against Lord Krishna and his calm acceptance of fate. That moment urges you to think about the power of just 30 seconds—the moments that can completely change your world.
The author presents life-changing decisions made by figures like Lord Krishna, Stephen Hawking, Rama and Sita, Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth, Churchill, Steve Jobs, Draupadi, Arjuna, Yudhishthira, Julius Caesar, Bhagat Singh, and many others. Each of them faced critical moments, and the 30 seconds in which they made a choice transformed everything.
Every story reminds us that life isn’t about controlling everything—it’s about staying steady in the face of uncertainty.
The book encourages us to embrace the unknown, to rethink what truly matters, and to keep moving forward, even when the path isn’t clear. It shows us that illusions eventually fade, and what stays behind is love, wisdom, and the freedom to live by our truth—not by the labels the world gives us.
In the end, it’s not the big battles or revolutions that define us—it’s the quiet moments, the seconds of hesitation, when we make a choice. That’s the legacy we leave behind.
The book dives deep into the decisions made in those crucial 30 seconds. Written in simple language and enriched with references from Bhagvad Gita and history it encourages us to pause, reflect, and choose wisely.
So the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, with your mind racing— pause, think and decide . Because in the end, history doesn’t just remember what we achieved—it remembers who we became in the process.
Those 30 Seconds is a self-help book made for people like us who sometimes feel angry, sad, confused, or too quick to react. It has around 215 pages and is very easy to read. The language is simple, and the book feels like a friend sitting beside you, telling you to slow down and think before doing or saying something. That’s what the whole book is about — taking a short pause before reacting.
The book is divided into 14 small chapters. Every chapter starts with a line from the Bhagavad Gita and explains it in a simple, daily life way. There are short stories from history, mythology, and simple examples we all can connect with. The message in every chapter is clear — if you stop for 30 seconds before reacting, you might save yourself from many problems and regrets.
What I liked most was how the book reminds us to stay calm. Many times in life, we say something in anger, or we make a quick decision and later feel bad about it. This book teaches you that those 30 seconds can change that. It makes you stop, think, and then act. Yes, after a while the message feels a little repetitive because every story comes back to the same point — but maybe we need to hear it again and again to really follow it.
I would suggest this book to anyone who often gets angry fast, overthinks, or feels lost in daily life. It’s good for beginners too. It’s not a difficult book, and you don’t need big words or deep knowledge to understand it. It’s a simple book with a simple message: take a pause, and it might change your life. I really liked reading it and will tell others to give it a try too. 📚✨
Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur is a very nice and meaningful book. It tells us how we often hurry in life, make quick decisions, and later feel sorry about them. The book teaches us that if we take a small pause of 30 seconds before speaking or doing something, it can save us from many problems. I read this book on a night when I was feeling restless, and it made me feel calm and peaceful.
While reading, I remembered many times in my life when I reacted too quickly or said something in anger. If I had waited for just a few seconds, things would have been better. This book has short stories from our daily life, Indian mythology, and history. I liked reading about Draupadi, Arjuna, and Steve Jobs. These stories are simple but leave a good message.
The best thing about this book is that it is very easy to read and understand. It doesn’t give heavy advice but teaches us through simple words and real-life examples. I also liked how the writer added lines from the Bhagavad Gita before every chapter. Since reading this book, I have started taking small pauses before reacting, and it has made a good difference in my life.
I would tell everyone to read Those 30 Seconds. It’s a good book for students, working people, homemakers, and anyone who feels stressed. This book reminds us that sometimes, a small pause can change everything. If you have ever thought, what if the next 30 seconds could change your life?, then this book is for you.
In today’s world where we run behind work, emotions, and decisions without thinking much, this book reminds you to stop for a moment, take a breath, and reflect before you speak or act. It’s simple advice, but very powerful when you actually try it.
The book mixes old wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita with stories from mythology and everyday life. Some stories talk about pain, some about anger, and some about confusion — and in each, the message is the same: one pause, one deep breath, one small 30-second wait can save you from regret or a wrong step. It made me think about the times I reacted in a hurry and how things could have been better if I’d stopped for just a little while.
The best thing about this book is that it doesn’t try to act like a teacher or give big lectures. It talks to you gently and makes you feel understood. It’s written in simple words, no heavy language, and each chapter quietly teaches you to be a little calmer, a little wiser in your busy life. I could feel its message with me even after closing the book.
I would truly suggest Those 30 Seconds to anyone who often feels overwhelmed or quick to react. It’s perfect for people who are looking for peace and balance in small moments. Take those 30 seconds — you may just find yourself. 📚✨
Those 30 seconds is a book that I really enjoyed. This book was an eye opener. As someone who has to run from the moment I wake up, I face a lot of challenges in my day to day life which this book helped me solve.
Parul Mathur talks about how fast the world moves and there's barely time to breathe. He urges the reader to stop for just 30 SECONDS. Those 30 seconds could mean more to you than anything else in life. I enjoyed reading every part of this book because it felt like a remedy to my mundane life .
This book is so wonderfully written. It brings out the deepest, hidden corners of the world in the form of stories that we have listened to from a young age.. Some of the passages in this book were really surprising. I learnt a lot of things that I never even knew existed.
I learnt a lot of lessons from this book. To take time to look around me, to stop for at least 30 seconds and enjoy the gift of life. This book is a must read for everyone irrespective of what you like. It is just that good.
In a world full of constant notifications, racing thoughts, and endless to-do lists. Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur shows how even a brief pause can bring real clarity. Before reacting whether with words, emotions, or judgments taking just thirty seconds of mindful stillness can calm the mind and help us respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.
Parul’s warm, conversational style makes the book feel like a friend guiding you. Each chapter blends mythological stories, personal experiences, and simple exercises, making it easy to relate to and practice. Trying the thirty-second pause myself brought surprising moments of calm like responding kindly in a tense chat or quieting my racing thoughts before sleep.
Those 30 Seconds is a gentle guide to living more mindfully, reclaiming control over reactions, and finding calm in everyday life. Those thirty seconds may feel small, but they can truly change everything. 🌿
They say you don’t really find a book, when the time is right, the book finds you. Those 30 Seconds by Praul Mathur is one of those books that came to me exactly when I needed it most.
It’s a collection of ancient, historical, scientific, and mythical stories, each one carrying a meaningful life lesson. Every chapter begins with a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, and the stories that follow are based on the message of that verse. What I loved most is that the book also includes real-life stories that truly happened. Reading them made me realise on how our decisions, patience, calmness, and sense of responsibility can literally shape or break our lives.
If you read this book with attention, you’ll definitely find something that connects with your current life situation. That’s how relatable it is. It's a great and thoughtful read.
We all are running towards an unknown path hoping to achieve more success, more abundance and so on. We barely seek for some time to pause and reflect. In this modern world we all slowly turning into human robot the only difference we have that we breathe. The book will force you to pause and reflect upon your own conduct.
'True youth is not in the body but in the spirit. Desire can never be satisfied- it only demands more. But duty, honor, and wisdom- these endure'.
This book will make you value nobility, righteousness, duty and wisdom. We all are the puppets destined by the destiny in this mere world. Everything we do, every person we meet; there's a reason behind it. And we have been chosen by the unknown force to simply do the task that has been vested upon us.
I have learnt many lessons from this book. The author has given various example such like Meera's devotion to Lord Krishna, Radhe's eternal love for Lord Krishna, the dried tears of Draupadi and many alike.
It's a refreshing and beautiful book which will somehow lessen the burden that we all carry for no reason.
Those 30 Seconds by Parul Mathur is a thoughtful and contemplative book that gently urges readers to pause and reflect on the pivotal choices and reactions that shape their lives. Drawing inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita and interweaving tales from mythology and everyday experiences, Mathur crafts a narrative that is both comforting and profound. The book stands out for its simple, clear writing style and its focus on introspection rather than offering dramatic solutions or typical self-help promises. Instead, it invites readers to slow down, find meaning in life's small moments, and reexamine their habits and decisions. Those 30 Seconds is ideal for anyone seeking a blend of wisdom, mindfulness, and practical guidance that lingers in the mind long after the last page.
Those 30 Seconds is a journey through those moments. It is not just a book; it is a reminder that within us lies the power to change, to course-correct, to build a life of purpose rather than impulse. This collection of stories, rich with history, mythology, and everyday wisdom, invites you to reflect on the transformative moments that are all too often overlooked in the rush of life.
Each chapter begins with a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, not as a sermon or directive, but as a source of guidance and contemplation. The teachings from this ancient text serve as a lens through which to view the dilemmas we face in our own lives.
I enjoyed reading the book and would recommend the same to all.
"Those 30 Second" by Parul Mathur is a self help book that you need to read once in your life. This book is divided into fourteen insightful chapters. each chapters highlights the transformative power of a simple concept. The author emphasizes how just a few Second of mindfulness can shift our perspective.
Each story in this collection is a mirror to our daily lives, some unsettling, some heart warming, some over whelming, but all incredibly real. The language is simple yet powerful. whether you're teenager struggling to make sense of friendship, this book gently nudges you to stop, think and choose better.
This is a must read book for anyone who is seeking mindfulness.
"Those 30 Seconds" by Parul Mathur is a refreshing read that packs a punch. In this concise and thought-provoking book, Parul shares valuable insights on how to navigate life's challenges with ease. With each page, you'll find yourself nodding in agreement and reflecting on your own experiences. The writing is engaging, relatable, and witty, making it hard to put down. What I loved most was how Parul weaves together stories, anecdotes, and practical advice to create a compelling narrative. A great read for anyone looking for a dose of motivation and inspiration. Highly recommended!
Those 30 Seconds” is the kind of book that quietly shifts your perspective. Parul Mathur draws from the Bhagavad Gita, mythology, and personal moments to craft gentle reminders about being present and intentional. There’s a comforting simplicity in the way she writes—nothing feels forced or heavy. Each chapter feels like a brief moment of stillness, offering space to reflect. It’s not about big revelations, but about everyday wisdom that slowly sinks in. A calm, thoughtful read that leaves a lasting impression.
“Those 30 Seconds” is a reminder that even the smallest moments can lead to the biggest shifts. Parul Mathur combines ancient wisdom with real-life stories to show how clarity and strength often come in brief, powerful flashes. This book doesn’t just inspire—it challenges you to take charge of your mindset, your choices, and your path forward. Each chapter feels like a spark of motivation, pushing you to pause, reflect, and act with purpose. It’s a short read, but its impact is anything but small.
Those 30 Seconds felt like slowing down in the middle of a fast-moving day. The blend of Gita-inspired wisdom and simple, everyday stories makes it more of a quiet companion than a typical self-help book. The writing never feels heavy—it just slips reminders into your mind, the kind that stay with you when you’re about to make a choice or caught in a moment of doubt. Some passages made me look back at old decisions differently, while others left me with a sense of calm about what lies ahead. It’s the kind of book you don’t just finish—you keep near, to open again when life feels too fast
Those 30 Seconds” quietly shifted something inside me. Parul Mathur turns mythology, the Bhagavad Gita, and personal anecdotes into simple invitations—to pause, breathe, and choose with intention. Each chapter is like a friend gently nudging you toward reflection rather than reaction. There's no pressure, no dramatic climax—just real-life moments that feel deeply human. It’s subtle, poetic, and surprisingly powerful. I found myself pausing at unexpected moments long after I finished the book.
I loved how this book celebrates the power of introspection and quiet moments. In our busy world, we often rush through decisions without really thinking. The book shows that taking just 30 seconds to pause and reflect can completely change our perspective. The stories are inspiring without being unrealistic, and the lessons are practical without being simplistic. This is definitely a book I'll be recommending to friends and returning to when I need guidance.
She doesn't shout. She doesn’t instruct. She reflects—allowing you, the reader, to find your own truths in the spaces between her words.
🧘♂️ For the Seeker Within You: This is for the ones who ache for meaning without always needing resolution. For those in grief, in growth, in liminality. For those who know that even a moment’s hesitation can be holy.
A simple yet powerful reminder that pausing—even for half a minute—can change the way we respond to life. Parul Mathur blends Gita-inspired wisdom with relatable stories, making the lessons feel practical and easy to apply. At times, the ideas repeat, but the message is worth it: slow down, breathe, and choose differently. It's gentle, insightful, and grounding.
In today’s fast world, we are always rushing, making decisions out of fear, habit, or pressure. Parul Mathur gently asks us to stop for just thirty seconds to breathe, reflect, and choose wisely. The book draws inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita and connects it beautifully with mythology, real-life moments, and personal stories. Each chapter feels like a quiet conversation that stays with you.
Overall,Those 30 Seconds shows us that the life we want may already be within reach just one pause away.
"Those 30 Seconds" by Parul Mathur is a refreshing read that packs a punch. In this concise and thought-provoking book, Parul shares valuable insights on how to navigate life's challenges with ease. With each page, you'll find yourself nodding in agreement and reflecting on your own experiences. The writing is engaging, relatable, and witty, making it hard to put down. What I loved most was how Parul weaves together stories, anecdotes, and practical advice to create a compelling narrative. A great read for anyone looking for a dose of motivation and inspiration. Highly recommended!
"Those 30 Seconds" by Parul Mathur is a valuable and inspiring self-help book that invites readers to pause and reflect before reacting, in order to shape their lives and the decisions they make. It helps readers cultivate mindfulness and connect deeply with themselves.
Each chapter starts with a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, and there are several stories that illustrate the essence of true mastery over life, as well as stories that help us understand the meaning of fulfillment by balancing desire and duty.
The story of Stephen Hawking inspires us to stay centered around our purpose and not be consumed by sorrows. He didn't surrender, his strength allowed him to shine in the world. Amira, a woman who lost her three-year-old son, found the strength to let go of her pain with the help of Meera and the wisdom of the Gita.
If you're wondering what makes this book different, it is its accessible writing style. Along with the guidance, the author encourages readers to introspect and reflect on their own journeys.
"Those 30 Seconds" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking personal growth and transformation. It teaches us the power of pausing for 30 seconds before reacting or giving a response. I hope this book reaches the right readers and helps them reclaim their lives.
This book is a tapestry woven from stories of resilience, doubt, breakdowns, and breakthroughs. 🌿 It’s not just about the author I myself felt the same while reading. With all my heart, I realized that my story too matters. Sometimes the things we think are small actually turn out to be turning points in life.
The idea that just 30 seconds can change everything really touched me. In this fast-paced life, we often make impulsive decisions without even thinking once. ⏳ But what if we pause for 30 seconds before deciding? Such a powerful concept I had never thought of it this way before.
Even in my own life, I’ve seen it happen. Once, before making an online payment, I didn’t even think for 10 seconds and was just about to type a completely different amount of money. At the very last second, I realized it would have been one of my biggest mistakes. 💳⚠️ That moment taught me how important it is to pause.
This book is a reminder that within even a slice of 30 seconds lies the power to change, to correct, and to build a life of purpose rather than impulse. 🌟 The power to change your story has always been within you.