Truly useful tips for 21st century relationships
924668
Definitely useful. Leal is able to synthesize timeless wisdom with some of the best of the last half of the 20th century into a simple format for action that is truly helpful. Focused on the idea that empathy (empathic awareness, empathic listening and empathic speaking) are the core of all effective communication and relationships, this book gave me some new things to ponder. While we've all learned about empathic listening from as far back as Stephen Covey, adding empathic awareness and empathic speaking in that same box is very helpful and concept-expanding.

Hats of to the author. My wife and I are already working on the "12 Day Communication Challenge" offered as the conclusion to the book - great to have something practical to apply right away!
4570354
Relationships and knowledge are the ultimate currency in life and in business. Imagine how game changing to your business and relationships if you better understood how to listen to others, what questions to ask or how to stand out from the crowd. Well, in this book you will not only learn the above, you will learn so much more.

The book comprises 53 central tenets which are broken down into 11 easy to read chapters. Seriously, you can read this in one sitting.

It is not going too far to say that Dave's latest work is a modern version of "How To Win Friends and Influence People."
4162102
Everything in the 21st century challenges our traditional views of matters.  From career choices, to sexuality to body image to nutrition  what was once accepted as standard and this is how its done has been challenged and eventually changed.  How much more does that apply to relationships. The view of the standard practice of dating someone you like, then falling in love, then getting married and becoming exclusive then having babies and living happily ever after  definitely does not apply in the modern world.  Elements such as the LGBT awareness, freedom to have sex whenever and with whomever, polyamory, polygamy  these trends confirm that doing old school relationships is not what most people are engaged in. If all that is not enough, sky-high divorce rates are facts that speak for themselves.  If you have heeded to the belief of doing relationships the traditional way but have not found fulfilment and ever wondered what is really going on out there in the relationship world? What works and what doesnt? Is it possible to find a relationship that I find truly fulfilling, even if it doesnt adhere to the standard way?  Then you are in for a treat with this book.
Neil Strauss manages to educate you on the latest trends out there in the relationship world in a very engaging and story-like method with lively characters and relatable moments.  Ever wondered whats it like to go through Sex Addiction therapy? To be in a non-monogamous relationship? To be in a relationship with 3 different people at the same time living in the same house? To attend a Hollywood swingers party? To try BDSM? Well, Neil just about tried it all and is here to share his experiences so as to both satisfy your curiosity and perhaps save you wasted time in experimenting things you would later regret or would find disappointing.
His findings are shocking at times, inspiring in other times but certainly they challenge strongly your world view and what you grew up believing to be right for you versus what really would be right for you.  He digs so deep inside his feelings emotions and thoughts  trying to find what is that one true thing he is looking for that will bring him that fulfilment he yearn for.  By going on this journey with him, you will definitely be able to answer some deep questions of yours also and perhaps find the solution also.
By far one of the best books on relationships and psychology (yes, that too) that I have read in years.  I feel so enlightened and actually more open and at peace with myself.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for that fulfilling relationship and who strives to understand himself better so as to discover what it is they truly want and seek without confirming to societys standards or what they were taught as a child.
Neil  you rocked it with this one, thank you!
2337411
I have had the opportunity to discuss the the core ideas and methods of improving relationships with the authors during their writing of this book. Reading the finished product has indeed been a delight. The Merrills' ideas on relationship enhancement take concepts that are familiar to most all of us, but arrange in a manner that few of us would have considered. Yet it is the new arrangement of concepts that allows the method in the book to be so powerful in transforming relationships, whether the relationship is with a spouse, a friend, or a co-worker. I highly recommend the book to anyone who wants to improve a relationship they are in.
1377445
What a great read this book is. It offers valuable advice that any couple struggling in their relationship would benefit from. It would also be a good book to read before entering a relationship for both men and women. Simple acts  of kindness that are not mind science can make all the difference to making a long lasting relationship.  In "The 8 Acts of Love That Make Your Marriage book" you will discover the essential skills that will help you lead a  good life and improve your relationships with everyone around you, which is one of the most valuable skills to have!
2203940
As a MidlifeHeart CoachTM, the author has helped save relationships, and marriages, as well as helping many find a deeper understanding of what it means to love.

"Building Your Relationship Toolkit"  provides the reader with the most valuable tools that are necessary to build and maintain healthy, loving relationships of any kind.

I found the insights the author provides to be valuable. It is always good te be reminded about the important stuff.

The Four Essential  Personal Relationship Tools  "Trust, Respect, Compassion, And Acceptance" struck a strong chord with me.

These four relationship tools are the most essential ones for you to have a healthy relationship with anyone, including yourself.

The author filled this book filled with additional relationship advice.

When you think about them and bring them in practice, you will surely improve the quality of your relationships.

 I gained a better understanding what makes a relationship work.
2281273
This book by John Ortberg has incredible wisdom. I wasn't sure what the title would hold but as I opened the first few pages I was impressed with his open honesty (even where it made him out to be the heel of the story!) and the lessons he learned from his mistakes. From talking about marriage to Jesus' relationship with his disciples he covers virtually every relationship one could be in and points out things that make the reader cringe because we've all kinda done it!
From the depth of opening yourself for marriage to having true friendships, Ortberg dives into it all. In the day of modern communication, this book of true relationships is much needed. And it isn't just another book telling us that texting isn't real communication. It is a book that describes the best and worse of relationships. It makes you long for something that, our day in age has forgotten about. He doesn't put down the way people do relationship, which makes it nice to read but creates a longing for true relationship.
He shares what shame is and how to get over it. He talks about ruptured relationships and how to lightheartedly repair them.
I think the main thing about this book that I can see is that the title seems almost cheaper than all the information inside!

This book was given to me for my review
3588868
Invaluable guidance and insight for all regardless of the circumstances of your relationship or lack there of.

The Recipe doesn't just describe the basic ingredients for a successful relationship, it provides necessary information to help you make important decisions; whether that's the difficult decision of whether or not to stay in a relationship or what steps to take to repair a troubled relationship or even keep a successful relationship thriving.  Also, you'll learn how to strengthen yourself in preparation for a relationship with someone special or a fulfilling single life.  I discovered that even the smallest intentional efforts can result in positive and meaningful changes in my life.

Clearly written and concise, yet contains a substantial amount of helpful information that is well organized and easy to navigate.  Filled with optimism and laced with humor throughout.

Money well spent!
2945177
When it comes to relationships, Ariel & Shya Kane are the experts.
Honest, insightful and compassionate, "How to Have A Match Made in
Heaven" is their second relationship book (a sequel to their
multi-award-winning "How to Create a Magical Relationship") and is
brimming with relationship wisdom.

The stories in the book provide real life examples that reveal a
refreshing, exciting and new reality for what is possible in the way we
relate. And even the way the stories are told is ground breaking: not
only through the written word, but also through links to videos and
audios of the Kanes working with individuals and couples. The very
intimate and heartfelt moments in these stories provide useful tips and
answers to relationship questions you didn't even know you had. The
Kanes share powerful lessons and discoveries over the course of their
own 30 year marriage, as well as their work with individuals, couples,
business owners and corporations since 1987.

The Kanes cover a vast array of topics that arise in relationships -
including the very real, though sometimes delicate, subjects like
fighting, break ups, birth control and aging - with heart and even a
sense of humor. This book brings relationships alive in a new and
exciting way, I highly recommend it!
This Book Will Transform Your Relationships and Your Life
807865
As someone who is not in a relationship but who talks about relationships quite a bit through my radio show, I looked to the book REAL INTIMACY as another conversation piece that I could share with those I meet. I wasn't disappointed.

What Kristin Hodson, Alisha Worthington and Thomas Harrison have done through this book is take a real look at what it means to not only be there for your partner but to meet them where they are in each and every situation. One of the great lessons of the book was reminding us that INTIMACY is not just about sex. It's a connection that feeds more than a sexual need and reaches us in many ways at our core.

The authors take us through situations and experiences that allow the reader to see what it means to be REAL and to live a life that is not perfect but brings the best of who we are forward.

I appreciated the fact that it recognizes time and again that we are not going to do everything right. As imperfect individuals this isn't realistic. What we can do is learn to know who we are, what we have gleaned from our past experiences and share that honestly and openly with the one we have dedicated ourselves to. Yes, this requires trust, but it also means that we realize that they have our best interest at heart.

REAL INTIMACY also tackles the sensitive issues that can threaten intimacy and a close relationship. It doesn't shy away from the hot-button issues of the day that have been known to create havoc among couples, but it discusses them in a way that we know is out of love and a true desire to help and aide in healing.

This book would be nothing without the importance of communication, as with any relationship we find ourselves in. I enjoyed the way it is able to get you to thinking and talking about ways to address your issues, knowing that the end result will be a stronger more sustainable bond.

Designed to reach you where you are, through REAL INTIMACY we are able to find oneness in our relationships and become the person we want to be.
4077611
New from New Growth Press, publisher for CCEF, is "We're Just Friends" and Other Dating Lies: Practical Wisdom for Healthy Relationships. Here is what the publisher says about it: "As a pastor of a large congregation and former singles pastor, author Chuck Milian has seen firsthand the broken relationships that occur when men and women don't move with proactive care in and through their dating relationships. With pastoral wisdom and insight, Milian educates readers about defining expectations before they start dating, and he outlines a specific five-step dating plan that will help limit relational damage as they look for someone to share their lives with. The author encourages, challenges, and instructs believers in this comprehensive how-to-date handbook. He gives practical advice on wisely forming relationships with the opposite sex while still having fun, avoiding unnecessary hurts, making lifelong friends, and knowing `where they are' each step of the way." This book seems to go beyond what I have seen in most titles about dating to help make sense of the progressive nature of relationships; I think that is a helpful addition to the field.
2223452
The Missing Manual to Love, Marriage and Intimacy is a practical guide to relationships that doesnt get bogged down in theory, philosophy, or abstractions.  Its clearly based on a lifetimes worth of observations on what really works to bring couples closer.  The emphasis of this book is a series of straightforward exercises and practices that, when followed, can bring new clarity and depth to any relationship.  While designed for couples, or singles looking for a new relationship, the techniques outlined here could be helpful in other contexts, too, such as on the job, in families, and in other groups where clear communication and honesty are needed.
The book outlines the common pitfalls and mistakes that work against happiness and deep connection in many relationships.  By learning what doesnt work, couples can move through a series of exercises to develop, in the authors words, co-creative solutions that can lead to a deeper understanding of each other.  The goal is a form of happily ever after that is built on commitment, self-love, and love for each other, a goal that is actually reachable with the help of this highly recommended book.
4452834
A book for the 21st century.  Clearly written and with compassion and grace for the complexity of long-term committed relationships.
1271751
Barry Watson's new book Rock Solid relationships is a definite winner in the circle of relationship books. I have read several books that focused on improving relationships but this is by far the best one yet. The authors writing style indicates that he is an authority on the subject and obviously has the experience to coach people in marriage and romance.

There are seven chapters, with each chapter contributing a large piece to how you can make your relationships rock even if it is not doing so well, or you feel awkward in a relationship that is struggling.

In the first chapter Barry talks about whether or not relationships are built to last. All relationships start out as the Hollywood Blockbusters show us, full of fun and laughter; but in any relationship difference collide and then problems begin. Barry poses some good questions to readers such as Is it possible to be with just one person your whole life? Does the lure of you enjoying lasting love promise more than it could ever hope for? A great chapter to start the book with.

Chapter two Barry discusses the importance of alone time and how it can help a relationship to grow, how you can enjoy the time that you spend together, and to help your partner do the things that they love. I also like the 3Ls that stand for: what we love doing, what we like doing, and what we loathe doing. Also the balance of finding time for both people and trying to have it for yourself. The topics covered are long-distance relationships, finding time for each other and compromising on how to spend that time, and when. Barry leaves us with 7 tips for balancing Me & We Time."

The third chapter deals with attraction: what attracts people to each other, how to remain attractive to your partner, and then, there are tips for what you can do when you start to lose that loving feeling."

Chapter four gets into the nitty-gritty of romance and how you can really make it explode in your relationships. In this chapter Barry chop up some great suggestions for sustaining romance and keeping it going throughout your relationship.

Chapter five gets into sex and how to make it great no matter how long youve been together, and how to ensure that the needs of both people are being met. Chapter six focus on overcoming the challenges and obstacles that are guaranteed to come up, and some great strategies for conquering them;

And chapter 7 deals with one of my favorite chapters on dealing with money. Most arguments in a relationship happen because of this, and many divorces as well.

The last chapter is about knowing yourself more and how it can help a relationship if you work on your own self-developments and not worry so much about your partner. here the author gives us the 3 key words [the 3As] we need: ask, acknowledge, and appreciate.

Barry encourages readers to find out what works best fro them in their relationships, and to help them do this, he has provided a FREE workbook to download.

Overall a fantastic book that is going to prove indispensable to your relationships, whether you are just starting out or if you have been married twenty years.
624987
This book is primarily geared toward those preparing for marriage some day but don't let that stop you from reading it if you're already there. In this book, author, Craig Groecschel offers many insights into relationships, past present and future. It is invaluable information you can pass on to others as well as heed for yourself.

Love, Sex and Happily Ever After will give you great advice for your future spouse (your #2) as well as guide you in your relationship with the "One" (Jesus Christ). You first need to meet and know the "One" and develop your relationship with Him to truly be able to understand and develop your relationship with your "two".

Craig's openness in his own failures and successes in relationships with the opposite sex are very real and even painful at times (such as the pick-up line he first used on his wife Amy).

I believe I could have made things much easier for myself but especially for my wife had I read this 25 years ago. So, whether you are just dipping your toe into the dating pool for the first time or you've been married for years, Love, Sex and Happily Ever After is a great book for staying the course or getting back on track.

I will certainly be giving a copy to my 19 year old daughter and her boyfriend soon.
799740
This is a wonderfully practical guide for couples - full of wisdom, common sense and humor. Hamburg's three dimensional model for assessing couple compatibility helped me to understand why we reach some of the impasses we  do with our partners.  The questions will aid any couple in making a frank  and open-eyed appraisal of their basic compatibility, a step which is often  neglected in the emotional intensity of a young love relationship.  As a  marital therapist, I appreciate Hamburg's simple, yet thoughtful, questions  and clinical examples as an aid to couples in sifting through their  questions and doubts about their choice of a partner.  As with any  self-help volume, the emphasis is on a particular approach - in this case  cognitive and behavioral techniques.  In my view the only shortcoming of  this book is an under-emphasis on examining the role of individual  limitations - such as personality disorders and unresolved family events -  in the perpetuaion of couple conflict.  That said, I will continue to  enthusiasticaly recommend Will Our Love Last? to many of the couples I see  in the office as well as those I know personally.
639308
Jim Masciarelli's book is great for those who are looking to improve the quality of their professional relationships.  Not surprisingly, his advice spills over into personal relationships as well.  I particularly like his ideas on cultivating and sustaining a "Nifty 50" - the fifty most important professional relationships in your life.