So, Valentine’s Day has come and gone and you and your S.O are more loved up than ever. Maybe he surprised you by sending a dozen red roses and an oversized teddy bear to your work, or you two kept it low-keeping watching movies at home. Either way, it was everything you could have wanted and you had a great day. But, what if you didn’t? What if you were expecting a sweeping, romantic gesture and all you got was “Sorry babe, totally forgot what day it was!” Sure, it’s just one day of the year, but it’s totally normal to feel a little crestfallen that not you’re completely on the same page.
If you’ve already had similar issues in the past, it might have you questioning the strength of your relationship. You love the guy and don’t want to give up, but it’s not like you’re a wealthy married couple who can just go to relationship counselling to sort it out. Luckily, there’s another, less extreme (and expensive) option. There are plenty of insightful books you can get your hands on that will give you practical tips for navigating common relationship issues and understanding different communication styles.
Even if your relationship isn’t on the rocks, they’re still worth reading to make your relationship even stronger — just as you wouldn’t stop going to the gym just because you’ve already got muscles! So, instead of turning on the TV tonight, why not pick up one of these must-read books instead (and a copy for your man, too)?
Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus
Chances are, you’ve heard of this iconic #1 New York Times Bestseller. It’s celebrating it’s 25th anniversary for this year, but it remains one of the most practical guides to understanding the opposite sex and working around those differences to nurture your relationship.
Shop the book at shoptiques.com
Relationships: The Ultimate Guide To Better Relationships
This book by Mia Conrad is packed with useful information on becoming a strong communicator — not only in your romantic partnership but in your other relationships, too. We love the fact that it’s not overly fluffy and actually gives you actionable, strategic advice on strengthening relationships.
Shop the book at amazon.com.au
Couple Skills
Yes, it has a rather ugly cover (brown, really?) But just like when it comes to prospective partners, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover! The practical guide is often recommended to couples by relationship counsellors and it covers everything from healthy communication to creating intimacy and resolving conflict.
Shop the book at amazon.com.au
The 5 Love Languages
We’ve mentioned The 5 Love Languages before, but it truly is the holy grail when it comes to relationship books! It’s all about the different ways people communicate their love in relationships. So, if you’ve ever wondered why you say “I love you” more than your partner, while they’re more physically affectionate, this is the book for you.
Shop the book at shoptiques.com
When The Past Is Present
Let’s face it — bringing in emotional baggage from our past can be one of the easiest ways to derail a relationship. That said, you can’t deny your past and everyone has their hang-ups! This book by psychotherapist David Richo is a really handy guide to accepting and working through that baggage so you can enter your relationships with a clear slate.
Shop the book at amazon.com.au
Getting The Love You Want
Not all relationships are created equal. A good one makes you feel happy, secure and fulfilled. If yours isn’t quite there yet, definitely add this book to your reading list. Originally published in 1988, the bestseller provides a roadmap for couples who want to develop a rock solid relationship.
Shop the book at amazon.com.au
Hold Me Tight
Believe it or not, this book is not your ultimate guide to hugging. It is, however, a guide to building a strong, happy partnership that will stand the test of time. It’s full of useful tips on de-escalating conflict and reaching the same emotional wavelength.
Shop the book at amazon.com
