Books The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert  by John Gottman PhD (Author), Nan Silver (Author)

"The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work" by John Gottman PhD and Nan Silver is a practical guide based on over four decades of research into what makes marriages succeed or fail. The authors emphasize the importance of building a deep friendship and emotional connection with mutual respect as the foundation for a long-lasting, happy marriage.

The seven key principles are:

Share Love Maps: Know detailed information about your partner’s world—likes, dislikes, dreams, fears, and values.

Nurture Your Fondness and Admiration: Focus on and express appreciation and positive regard for each other to build a strong emotional bank account.

Turn Towards Each Other Instead of Away: Respond to your partner’s bids for attention and support by engaging positively rather than ignoring or rejecting them.

Let Your Partner Influence You: Foster mutual respect by being open to your partner’s input and influence in decision-making, especially encouraging men to be receptive.

Solve Your Solvable Problems: Use gentle communication techniques to address problems that can be fixed, including compromising and managing conflict constructively.

Overcome Gridlock: Identify and move past chronic disagreements by understanding underlying dreams and needs rather than just "fixing" the problem.

Create Shared Meaning: Build a shared culture, rituals, and goals that bring deeper purpose and connection to your marriage beyond day-to-day tasks.