I’m in the process of reading “Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples” by Harville Hendrix (at the recommendation of Lisa and h.g. ~happiness in this post.) Although the book is written with couples in mind, it’s not a far reach at all to apply the information Hendrix shares to an individual, and so far I have found it very insightful.

I’ve reached the third (and last) section of the book, which is a set of 10 exercises he uses in his therapy and workshops, and which he discusses in the first two sections of the book. Some of the exercises are for each individual (of the couple) to do separately and some are meant to be done jointly, as a couple. Most, if not all, of the joint ones seem easily adaptable to a individual. I’m going to work through the exercises; some I will post on here, some I may not, I’ll decide as I do each one.

The first exercise asks both persons to “write a series of short sentences that describe your personal vision of a deeply satisfying love relationship.” These can include both qualities you already have and those you want to have. They should be positive and present tense (as if you already have them).

I’ve written a list of qualities that describe my personal vision of “Me being truly happy with my life.” As directed by Hendrix, I’ve ranked them in importance – 1, 2 or 3 (with 1 being the most important), and marked with a + sign the ones I feel will be the most difficult to achieve.

1. I have a strong spiritual relationship with God.
1, I have strong, nurturing relationships with family and friends.
1. I find enjoyment in each day and laugh often.
1. I am financially responsible. +
2. I exercise and/or am active several times a week.
2. I eat healthy.
2. I maintain a healthy weight. +
2. I resolve conflict calmly and rationally. +
3, I have an active social and dating life
3. I am organized