Relationships are an essential part of life, but they’re not always easy. From tricky relationships with parents or children, coworkers, or other people in our lives, relationships can be either enjoyable or painful, or both! They can also be considered healthy or unhealthy. If you’re struggling in your relationships or feeling lonely, there are steps you can take to make changes or find a community of healthy relationships. Or, if you have relationships you cherish, find ways to make them a top priority and truly enjoy them- even over work or other responsibilities.

Self improvement is both a great practice and quality to obtain, and we want to encourage you to dig deeper with some of our favorite books in relationships, self improvement, and personal development. Which sections stand out to you? 

Self Care

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

Are you an introvert in an extroverts’ world? Find your place and voice. Strengthen relationships through self awareness with this resource by Susan Cain.

Never Eat Alone, Expanded and Updated: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time by Keith Ferrazzi

Quick and practical suggestions for stronger personal relationships by Keith Ferrazzi, Never Eat Alone can help you implement one positive change at a time (and there’s still  no judgment for ever eating alone!)

Personal Relationships

Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brene Brown.

Is your guard up when it comes to friendships, relationships, or love? Brene Brown is a powerhouse of positive change and encouragement. Everything she writes gifts us with a fresh, empowered perspective. “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome”

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

 Tough, yet gentle, life changing advice on strengthening meaningful relationships. The Gottman institute is world renowned in marriage, family, and other relationship centered therapies. 

Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age by Sherry Turkle

Am I wrong in thinking that all of us could use some help in this area? While digitally detoxing is hard, our relationships can suffer from dependence on our devices and social media. Sherry Turkle offers suggestions to take back conversation and connection.

Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries Updated and Expanded Edition: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life by Cloud and Townsend

Some relationships can pull us in to unhealthy behaviors and codependency. Learning how to set healthy boundaries is a big form of self respect and establishes more healthy roles for both parties.

Courage to Cure Codependency: Healthy Detachment Strategies to Overcome Jealousy in Relationships, Stop Controlling Others, Boost Your Self Esteem, and Be Codependent No More. by Leah Clarke

When codependency runs deep, there are still options for change and improved relationships.

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