Knowledge is power in building and maintaining a robust and healthy relationship. Reading together can be a bonding experience for couples, offering shared insights and sparking meaningful conversations. Here are five must-read books that can help strengthen your relationship.
1. Hold Me Tight - Sue Johnson
Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), presents a revolutionary approach to understanding and improving romantic relationships. “Hold Me Tight” introduces the concept of attachment in adult relationships and offers seven transformative conversations that can help couples create stronger, more secure bonds. Johnson’s work is grounded in extensive research and provides a roadmap for developing deeper emotional connections
2. Want This to Work - Elizabeth Earnshaw
Elizabeth Earnshaw, a couples therapist and relationship expert, offers a practical guide to navigating the complexities of modern relationships. This book provides actionable strategies for improving communication, managing conflict, and fostering intimacy. Earnshaw’s approach combines clinical expertise with real-life examples, making it relatable and applicable for couples at any stage of their relationship.
3. The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work - John Gottman
Renowned relationship expert Dr John Gottman distils decades of research into seven fundamental principles of forming the foundation of a successful marriage. This book offers practical exercises and questionnaires to help couples implement these principles in their own relationships. Gottman’s science-based approach provides valuable insights into predicting relationship success and offers tools for overcoming common obstacles.
4. Attached - Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller
Psychiatrist and neuroscientist Amir Levine team up with psychologist Rachel Heller to explore how attachment theory applies to adult romantic relationships. “Attached” helps readers identify their attachment style (anxious, avoidant, or secure) and understand how it impacts their relationships. The book offers strategies for creating healthier dynamics, regardless of attachment style, and provides a fresh perspective on why some relationships thrive while others struggle.
5. The New Rules of Marriage - Terrence Real
Family therapist Terrence Real challenges traditional notions of marriage and offers a modern framework for creating fulfilling partnerships. This book addresses the evolving expectations in relationships and provides practical tools for improving intimacy, resolving conflicts, and fostering personal growth within the context of a committed relationship. Real’s approach is particularly insightful for couples navigating changing gender roles and societal expectations.
Reading these books together can open new avenues for understanding, communication, and growth in your relationship. Each offers unique perspectives and tools that, when applied, can help create a stronger, more resilient partnership. Remember, the journey of building a great relationship is ongoing, and these books can serve as valuable guides along the way.
