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Book Review: Five Arguments All Couples (Need To) Have by Joanna Harrison

Effective communication is at the heart of most successful relationships. In her latest offering, Five Arguments All Couples (Need To) Have: And Why the Washing-Up Matters, Couple Therapist and former Divorce Coach Joanna Harrison draws on her expertise to help couples find their rhythm.

The word conflict stirs up different emotions depending on your attachment style. Some people avoid arguing at all costs, while others are open to having difficult conversations to get to the root of an issue and resolve a dispute. Joanna Harrison explores sensitive issues in a relatable, light-hearted manner to encourage couples to be mindful of the little details that make up the fibre of their relationship. Using real-life case studies, she highlights the importance of communication and, most importantly, compromise.

If you’re in a relationship, you’ll know compatibility is a deciding factor in its future. Sharing your space with another person is an intimate experience, and in her capacity as a couple therapist, Joanna is privy to the nature of couples’ arguments. Through her offering, she affirms that you can come back from those altercations and learn to communicate better, and if you’re separated and have kids, she equips you with the tools to help you relate to each other healthily. She also highlights the five most-frequent issues couples experience, which she refers to as the Five Arguments:

• How we communicate with each other

• How we deal with each other’s families

•How we deal with sharing chores

• How we manage distance between us

• How we feel about each other’s bodies

Joanna notes that each argument is a consequence of sharing your physical and mental space, dedicating a chapter to each. You’ll discover why the washing up matters – the when, how and why? If you’re tired of asking your partner to stop leaving his wet towel on the bed or floor, or if you argue about the dishwasher or shower, Joanna affirms that she’s seen and heard it all. That plate your partner left in the sink could represent so much more to you. This is why communication is vital – it provides a gateway for your partner to understand your views, fears and insecurities. You’ll find insight on the pages of this book, and it’ll prompt you to look beyond the day-to-day.

The book Five Five Arguments All Couples (Need To) Have: And Why the Washing-Up Matters by Joanna Harrison is available on loot.co.za, R326

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