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Marriage Book Review


How to Live With an Imperfect Person
by Dr. Louis H. Janda
Paperback, 354pp. ISBN: 1587410079
Wellness Institute, Inc. , Jan. 2000

Review by Sheri Stritof

Can imperfect people live happily ever after? According to Dr. Janda, of course they can. This is because we all are imperfect in some way.

He does share, however, that some relationships are not worth saving and that some partners are simply not right for each other. Rather than throwing in the towel right away, though, he suggests that folks not give up on a marriage too soon.

People in love will be thoughtless, selfish, petty, stupid and self-destructive. If these types of behaviors are causing your relationship problems, then this book may be helpful.

There are quizzes, case histories, and advice for dealing with a variety of irritating personality types. The ones he includes are:

  • The Coquette
  • The Ladies' Man
  • The Avoider
  • The Nice Guy
  • The Compulsive
  • The Egotist
  • The Moper
  • The Money Sick
  • The Health Worrier
  • The Chronic Dieter
  • The Imperfect Lover

The strategies he shares are for bridging the gap between that initial romantic "blind" love and living in a long-term relationship. The shortcomings of these personalities are only problems when they turn into fatal flaws.

His goal is for married folks to reach companionate love. Companionate love is of more value than romantic love over the course of a lifetime. He shows how this type of love is the glue that can hold a lasting relationship together. It is a feeling of liking and respect that people who have been together for some time have for each other.

If your spouse is less than perfect, this book could give you some coping mechanisms.

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