How to Be an Adult in Relationships

The Five Keys to Mindful Loving

By: David Richo

Narrated by: David Richo

Length: 9 hrs and 20 mins

Publisher's summary

"Most people think of love as a feeling," says David Richo, "but love is not so much a feeling as a way of being present." In this audiobook, Richo offers a fresh perspective on love and relationships - one that focuses not on finding an ideal mate, but on becoming a more loving and realistic person. Drawing on the Buddhist concept of mindfulness, How to Be an Adult in Relationships explores five hallmarks of mindful loving and how they play a key role in our relationships throughout life:

1. Attention to the present moment; observing, listening, and noticing all the feelings at play in our relationships
2. Acceptance of ourselves and others just as we are
3. Appreciation of all our gifts, our limits, our longings, and our poignant human predicament
4. Affection shown through holding and touching in respectful ways
5. Allowing life and love to be just as they are, with all their ecstasy and ache, without trying to take control

When deeply understood and applied, these five simple concepts - what Richo calls the five A's - form the basis of mature love. They help us to move away from judgment, fear, and blame to a position of openness, compassion, and realism about life and relationships. By giving and receiving these five A's, relationships become deeper and more meaningful, and they become a ground for personal transformation.

©2018 David Richo (P)2018 Random House Audio

Worth reading

I liked how it opened my eye on my role in the relationship. Also the practices in each section are helpful. Simple and direct book.

I’d recommend this book for people who feel stuck in the relationship with unpleasant patterns, people who want to understand real relationships not the fairytales.

The narrator is slow for me so I speed up the record so I don’t get bored.

Powerful content

narration was monotoned kind of hard for me to stay engaged. I had to listen to every section several times. I found myself drifting in and out missing content although the content was very rich and life changing. the narration is just not very engaging.

nevertheless I would recommend this book I bought a hard copy also to help me gain everything that is offered in this book definitely a keeper and worth the read.

Horrible narration!!

Had to buy a physical copy of the book because the narration was soooo bad!! So hard to really absorb what is being read.

Highly recommend

I recommend this to anyone looking to improve themselves and their relationships. It’s written from a somewhat Buddhist perspective but I think anyone would get something out of it. I enjoyed the author’s narration too - very calming without being boring to listen to.

Great learning!

An awesome book! Learning opportunity for all on how to be in a meaningful and mindful relationship!

Not for beginners?

I have read a variety of self-improvement/spirituality/relationship books over the years. This is the BEST. Probably not for the beginning of your journey; idk. It's not like the others, where it explains what you are doing wrong with simple stories that you try to compare to your own life. It's more of a guide to how we SHOULD be feeling an treating others right now. Easily helps you to see where you are in your life, the things you have mastered, and the areas you still need to progress in. Very deep thoughts and lessons for life. Definitely a MUST READ. I listened twice just to make sure I took it all in. I may give it a 3rd go,

Title was kind of condescending sounding but the book is great!

This will surely take you inside yourself for a deep look around. Self awareness is key. I believe that everyone can benefit from this novel. Each chapter offers so much you can work in, process and incorporate into your daily life and heal some old wounds. I have recommended this book to several friends, family.

Many nuggets of wisdom

You may be thinking you don’t need this. Maybe not, but you’ll be better off if you give it a listen. Great perspectives, understanding and guidance throughout.

Better than therapy

Read this and follow the wisdom within it. It is better than therapy. And will save your future and present relationships. 😊

Every chapter was a WOW

The book focuses on five key principles that can help individuals develop more fulfilling and mindful relationships with others. These five principles are:

1. Attention: Paying attention to our own needs and desires, as well as those of our partner, can help create a more meaningful connection.

2. Acceptance: Accepting our partner as they are, rather than trying to change them, can help foster greater intimacy and trust.

3. Appreciation: Expressing gratitude and appreciation for our partner can help strengthen the relationship and create positive feelings.

4. Affection: Expressing physical affection, such as hugging or holding hands, can help build intimacy and closeness.

5. Allowing: Giving our partner the freedom to be themselves and pursue their own interests can help build trust and respect.