Intimate communion: Awakening your sexual essence
by David Deida
This is a third year when I'm rereading this book, and I'm much more critical of it this time. I generally agree with the three-level concept: dependent, equal, and intimate communion. However, the author's description of the latter is too abstract. In short, he means it as: love from your heart, give your love, and don't expect anything back.
I would suggest The Mastery of Love book instead now. It explains love much better.
The Intimate Communion book describes the theoretical setup but does not address the practicality of being feminine in the modern world and how to switch back from masculine, while I feel it's a must to get ahead in the world. In the book’s defence, it was more realistic when the book was written.
Changing that external force will help women to operate closer to their base feminine. Unfortunately, it's not clear how. The world prioritises masculine energy, and it's impossible to sustain a relationship with one income provider.
Another point which is not addressed in both books: giving love sounds good in theory until you realise that your partner starts using you and your love. Eventually, you’ll be pushed back to a defensive 50/50 relationship (level 2). You do need guardrails on level 3 to make sure the relationship is healthy, sustainable, and love is mutual.
How Will You Measure Your Life? book mentions the relationship paradox that people usually don't prioritise relationships and under-invest in them until there are visible issues. However, it's already too late at that point, and you'll have to deal with the damage.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
by Stephen R.Covey
This was one of the first self-help books I've read, which was about 15 years ago. This month I decided to reread it, as I couldn't remember anything from it.
The book touches on many main points and that's why it's great. However most of the book is common sense. It's hard to disagree or be life changing.
The interesting part for me was to see development stages Dependence, Independence and Interdependence which are the same in Intimate Communion book.
I like the sequential model Stephen presents, however the delivery is bad. 7 habits are not habits at all, more like principles or groups. The book mentions a lot and yet it's still far from being comprehensive or foundational.
I'd recommend this book to people who are new to self-development. You'll feel like you've discovered super power, but most likely little will change for you. That's expected, use that energy to read more practical books next.
P.S. I couldn't find the audiobook of the text. All I could find is some author's commentary. Keep in mind the book is different.
Intimate communion: Awakening your sexual essence
by David Deida
I recently recommended this book to my friend and decided to re-read it. It's still one of the most influential books I've read and I can't recommend it enough to everybody.
The Millionaire Fastlane
by MJ De Marco
I read and reviewed this book last year. There are not many books that I reread. My opinion hasn't changed, it's a solid read.