The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert

Discover why everything you thought you knew about relationships is only half the story

John M. Gottman

8 Key Insights

About This Book

Embark on a life-changing journey that unlocks the true potential of your most intimate relationships. Drawing from decades of groundbreaking scientific research, this guide reveals the hidden patterns that predict marital success and equips you with practical, evidence-based tools to build a resilient partnership. Overcome the myths about communication, uncover the quiet daily habits that fuel connection, and transform conflict into opportunities for deepening trust and understanding. Whether you’re newly committed or navigating decades together, these principles will recharge your marriage with warmth, shared meaning, and lasting joy, offering hope—and real solutions—even when things seem stuck.

About the Author

John Gottman, Ph.D., is world-renowned for his pioneering research on marital stability and relationship analysis. As co-founder of The Gottman Institute, he has spent over four decades investigating what makes love last, integrating clinical insight with rigorously validated science. Alongside coauthor Nan Silver, he’s helped millions worldwide transform their relationships through evidence-based strategies and compassionate guidance. Dr. Gottman’s “Love Lab” has produced some of the field’s most influential findings, earning accolades from scholars and therapists alike, while his engaging teaching style empowers everyday couples and professionals to put research into practice.

Biggest Takeaway

By applying these principles, readers can expect a noticeable reduction in conflict and misunderstandings, along with a renewed sense of closeness and partnership. You’ll build richer emotional maps of your partner, foster deep admiration even in the face of frustration, and master techniques to repair and de-escalate arguments before they spiral. Over time, these practices lead to greater personal well-being, improved communication, enhanced intimacy, and measurable increases in long-term relational satisfaction. The strategies here don’t just aim for short-term harmony—they lay the foundation for a resilient, loving marriage that can weather life's inevitable challenges.