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