Whether you feel like your relationship is stuck in a rut, or you believe there may be ways to improve your already healthy partnership, relationship books are an excellent resource for insight on how to navigate the complexities of your relationship on your own or as a couple. Because these books are more general than in-person counseling, they provide great advice for common relationship problems.
Below are 5 relationship books every couple needs on their bookshelf.
The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
In this book, Chapman explains the different love languages (words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, physical touch, and acts of service) and helps readers understand theirs as well as their partners’. This book is highly instructional and can help you and your partner navigate the challenges of mismatched love languages. (Want to find out your and your partner’s love language? Take our free quiz when you download Relish!)
Making Marriage Simple by Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt
This book is intended specifically for married couples, but can also be a great resource for any serious couple. In their book, Hendrix and Hunt distill the ten essential truths to any happy marriage. Each truth is elaborated upon in a chapter, with practical, straight-forward advice. It’s the perfect combination of professional advice and personal experience (as the authors, both Ph.D.’s, are a couple themselves).
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman
The Gottman Method is a methodology for marriage counseling pioneered by Dr. John Gottman, who used clinical and scientific research to create an evidence-based therapy method. His book, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work explains his findings, the basis of his methodology, and it even includes exercises and questionnaires to work through as a couple. The best part about it? It’s so much more affordable than a single therapy session.
Crucial Conversations: Tools For Talking When the Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler
This book focuses on discussing difficult topics directly, creating a safe space for these conversations, and developing critical listening skills so that your partner feels acknowledged and heard when they bring things to your attention. Important conversations are scary, but a quick read can make all the difference.
Relish
Relationship books can be a helpful resource for couples looking to navigate different aspects of their relationship. And while they can be of great help, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea. If you don’t have time or energy to pick up a relationship book, download Relish! This relationship coaching app is a great resource for busy couples who want to avoid the cost and time associated with traditional therapy (and books). It’s a super-easy way to improve your relationship!