I wanted to share a book that I just revisited- "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People"
by Stephen R. Covey.

I found it in a used bookstore and wanted to read it to balance out some of the other books that I am reading that focus on pathology. I wanted to see where the overlaps were in this book and a book I am reading about trust and trauma.

Turns out there are some overlaps, that we are all human, and our "issues" are often just a matter of degree.

It has to do with developing a foundation one's sense of self (personal victories) before trying to interact effectively with other people. I used to be so proud of my independence, of not "needing" anyone.. but this book helps me realize that that interdependence is a part of life, and I'm not evolved as I thought I was.

The chapter (habit) was #5: "Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood"

This shed a lot of light on how my T and I interact. It seemed timely in regards to some of the posts I have been following. It has to do with building trust, making deposits in the "emotional bank account", and really, truly, hearing, listening, and empathizing with another person whether it is via personal relationships, business relationships/negotiations, or therapeutic relationships.

I would even go as far to say that some of the errors that therapists make are talked about in this chapter (relying on techniques rather than character, integrity, and genuine interest in another person)

Of course, this book is also good for helping the client/patient improve self-awareness, as seen from a non-pathological perspective. (Hey, I'm somewhat "normal"!)

An oldie, but a goodie.