The 7 Best Things (Happy) Couples Do

This book would be great for newlyweds or young engaged couples, nothing but positive ways to improve your relationship, great to read together at nights!

It is unfortunate that the first reviewer of this book is so negative. She (he?) states that it is poorly written but never gives concrete examples of the poor writing. The reviewer says the book is poorly organized, but they begin with chapters identifying what constitutes a healthy/happy relationship and what does not. Most of us grew up on TV and movies to inform us about romance, but rarely showing how people effectively manage the trickier day to day coping and growing in a marriage. The Friels begin by setting the record straight about what can we realistically expect. How do we make our selves feel good with that very imperfect partner of ours. One way is by owning our own part of the problems. Much easier for any of us to talk about than to really act on. The book is divided up into sections that cover points that I think most of have to learn about, because these ideas are not common knowledge. A couple examples are entitled, Be Willing to Divorce, and Let Disappointment Enrich You. The first reviewer seems to think that the book's ideas are too warm and fuzzy. I would suggest that if you have the courage and ability to really understand the depth of what they are saying, you have an opportunity to make profound changes in your relationship. And if you end up with more warm and fuzzy feeling in your relationship, since most of have enough frustration, wouldn't more warm and fuzzy feelings be a good thing?

7 Best Things ought to be a number 1 best seller! I thought I knew a few things about relationships, but until reading this book I was in emotional kindergarten. By the time I completed reading just half of 7 Best Things, my relationship quotient increased about 20 times.After trying and trying and trying for years to deal with difficult issues in my marriage, nothing seemed to work. I was spinning my wheels. I read this book and, voila, I have confidence that this relationship will be positively resolved. Next time I'm invited to a wedding, 7 Best Things will be one of the gifts I buy. Wish I'd read it many years ago! It has given me the tools I need for my relationship. Other books haven't helped at all. My eyes have been opened. I now know what I didn't know before about having a fulfilling, adult relationship! Thank you, Linda and John Friel!!!!!