How To Make Sense Of Relationships Book Review (2 Minds A Path Travelled)

Reviewed by Louise Edwards

How to make sense of relationships, written by Alison Blackler is the perfect read for everyone. It may be more valuable if you are looking for a relationship, in a relationship that you would like to improve, trying to understand why a relationship has failed. However, generally, if you are just interested in improving relationships in your life it will definitely have nuggets of information that are worthwhile.

The book has eight chapters and almost 300 pages. The contents page clearly lays out what the book covers, everything from new relationships, and challenging things in a relationship to ending a relationship.

The most important point to start with is that relationships begin with you and loving yourself is the root of all relationships. This book examines this and Alison’s experience as a coach and facilitator is interspersed with activities and case studies to practically apply the knowledge and reflect on what has been learned. These practical exercises really are invaluable in unraveling deep-set beliefs that may have a negative effect on yourself and your relationships. Alison’s writing is clear and the book is easy to either dip into or read from start to finish.

Communication is of course a vital part of a healthy relationship and a whole chapter is devoted to communication styles. In this chapter, there is an activity to understand what your communication styles are, and also see how things can get complicated when different people have different styles. Alison’s writing is very clear and I found it empowering to understand that often things that seem to be completely incomprehensible are actually straight forwards when broken down.

The thing that really stood out to me in the book was how powerful your subconscious is and how believing something strongly enough can actually make it come true. So if you imagine you have the perfect partner (whatever that means to you) you are more likely to find this match. Our subconscious minds can make this happen. This theme was also highlighted in Blackler’s book about improving your life, reviewed here, and can be used in any facet of our lives.

Personally, I think no matter your relationship status this book makes an interesting read. Relationships are complex and there are so many nuances that can be misinterpreted. Sometimes you can feel stuck and like the other person really is not behaving as you would like them to. This book really takes things apart and examines why these happen and explains things in a simple and effective way. I love the whole concept of love language, which is just one part of understanding each other, and think that is just one really useful thing to help with relationships whether they be partners, friends, or family.

The book ends with some useful words reinforcing how important YOU are and how looking after yourself is key to loving and fulfilling relationship.

Rating: 5/5

RRP: £14.99

How To Make Sense Of Relationships can be purchased here.