I love reading books that help inspire me, challenge me and change me. I struggle to find books that are helpful and not just the feel-good self-help type of book. Working with my clients I will recommend books that offer more than just a feel-good solution. That is why I do a bi-weekly blog post on books that are helpful to read. This week’s book review of The Seven Principle for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman, Ph.D. and Nan Silver.

Review of The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work

Click here to buy on amazon.

Dr. John Gottman has researched what makes a successful relationship work for the last 30 years. In this book, he shared his research in what not to do. Along with how to develop new ways of interacting with you partner that fosters “togetherness.” I use the principles of this book in most my couples counseling sessions.

Good parts of the book – Dr. Gottman gives a number of exercises that can help improve your relationship. Along with creating a simple way to understand what to do in a relationship and what not to do.

The not so good parts of the book – While all the information is amazing in this book, Dr. Gottman does have a Ph.D. and it shows in the writing. For me, it is not the easiest read because of the amount of research that is listed.

Chapter Breakdown

1 – Review of Dr. Gottmans history of studying realtionship.
2 – Share what leads to divorce. You can read more about these ‘4 hoursman’ by clicking this link here (Link coming later in 2017)
3 – How to re-build conneciton to your partner.
4 – Learn and develop the skills of fondess and admiration within your realtionship.
5 & 6 – Learn to what I call being in each other corner.
7 through 10 – All relationships have problems they can solve and those that they can’t Dr. Gottman shared how to deal with solveable problems and how to spot unsolveable problems.
11 – Builting love that last.

Who This Book Helps

Anyone who is in or wants to be in a relationship. For those of us who are already married this book can help us learn new ways to look at our partners, along with learning how to connect differently. If you are not married or in a long-term relationship this book can help you create a solid foundation for a future relationship.

Other Recommend Relationship Books by Dr. Gottman

You can click on the titles and it will take you to amazon where you can buy the book

The Relationship Cure: A 5 Step Guide to Strengthening Your Marriage, Family, and Friendships

What Makes Love Last?: How to Build Trust and Avoid Betrayal

Raising An Emotionally Intelligent Child The Heart of Parenting

The Man’s Guide to Women: Scientifically Proven Secrets from the “Love Lab” About What Women Really Want

Why Marriages Succeed or Fail: And How You Can Make Yours Last

The Science of Trust: Emotional Attunement for Couples

Ten Lessons to Transform Your Marriage: America’s Love Lab Experts Share Their Strategies for Strengthening Your Relationship

Other Gottman Resounces

You can check out Dr. Gottman’s Institute by Clicking Here. This website has blogs, research, conferences, and products that are good for couples and families.

That was my quick review of The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work. You can click here to buy on amazon.