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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Journal of Best Practices summary
David Finch
Brief summary
The Journal of Best Practices is a heartfelt memoir by David Finch, chronicling his journey to understand and cope with his Asperger's syndrome in order to improve his marriage and be a better partner.
Table of Contents
The Journal of Best Practices
Summary of key ideas
The Journey of Self-Discovery
In The Journal of Best Practices by David Finch, we are introduced to the author's life, which is filled with peculiar habits and social awkwardness. After years of struggling to understand his behavior, David is diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism. This revelation serves as a turning point in his life, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement.
David's diagnosis helps him understand the reasons behind his idiosyncrasies, but it doesn't provide him with a solution to his marital problems. His wife, Kristen, is at her wit's end, unable to cope with David's obsessive behaviors and lack of empathy. Determined to save his marriage, David decides to take matters into his own hands and create a set of rules, or 'best practices', to guide his interactions with Kristen.
The Journal of Best Practices
David's 'Journal of Best Practices' becomes his personal guidebook, filled with observations, strategies, and reminders to help him navigate the complexities of human relationships. He meticulously documents his interactions with Kristen, noting down her likes, dislikes, and reactions to his behavior. He also records his own emotional responses, aiming to understand and control his impulsive reactions.
As David implements his best practices, he begins to notice a positive change in his relationship with Kristen. His newfound awareness and efforts to accommodate her needs lead to fewer conflicts and more harmonious interactions. However, David's journey is far from smooth, as he often finds himself struggling to adhere to his self-imposed rules, especially in emotionally charged situations.
Challenges and Triumphs
Throughout The Journal of Best Practices, David candidly shares the challenges he faces in his quest for self-improvement. He grapples with his innate need for routine and predictability, which often clashes with Kristen's desire for spontaneity. He also battles his tendency to take things literally, leading to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
Despite these obstacles, David's determination and unwavering commitment to his marriage drive him forward. He continues to refine his best practices, incorporating new insights and adapting to changing circumstances. His efforts pay off, as he witnesses a significant improvement in his relationship with Kristen, and more importantly, in his own emotional well-being.
A Journey of Acceptance
As the book progresses, David's focus shifts from merely 'fixing' his behavior to accepting himself for who he is. He comes to terms with the fact that his Asperger's syndrome is an integral part of his identity, and not something to be 'cured'. Instead of viewing his condition as a limitation, he begins to see it as a unique perspective that enriches his life.
In conclusion, The Journal of Best Practices is a heartwarming and insightful account of one man's journey to understand and improve his relationships. David Finch's story serves as a reminder that acceptance, understanding, and a willingness to change are essential ingredients for a successful marriage, and indeed, a fulfilling life.
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What is The Journal of Best Practices about?
The Journal of Best Practices by David Finch is a heartfelt memoir that chronicles the author's journey to improve his marriage after being diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome. Filled with humor and honesty, Finch shares the challenges he faces and the strategies he develops to become a better husband and father. It's a touching and insightful book that offers a unique perspective on relationships and neurodiversity.
The Journal of Best Practices Review
The Journal of Best Practices (2012) is a heartfelt memoir that chronicles David Finch's journey to understanding and managing his autism diagnosis, offering valuable insights along the way. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With raw honesty and vulnerability, it provides a firsthand account of living with autism, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the condition.
- Through practical strategies and personal anecdotes, the book offers guidance for individuals and families navigating the challenges of autism.
- Finch's humor and relatability make this book an enjoyable read, capturing the reader's attention while shedding light on a topic that is often misunderstood.
Who should read The Journal of Best Practices?
- Individuals looking to understand the experiences of someone with Asperger's syndrome
- People who want to improve their relationships through empathy and communication
- Readers who enjoy personal memoirs with a blend of humor and introspection
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The Journal of Best Practices FAQs
What is the main message of The Journal of Best Practices?
The main message of The Journal of Best Practices is the importance of understanding and managing neurodiversity in relationships.
How long does it take to read The Journal of Best Practices?
The reading time for The Journal of Best Practices varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Journal of Best Practices a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Journal of Best Practices is a valuable read for anyone interested in understanding and supporting neurodiverse individuals. It offers practical insights and strategies for building successful relationships.
Who is the author of The Journal of Best Practices?
The author of The Journal of Best Practices is David Finch.
What to read after The Journal of Best Practices?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Journal of Best Practices, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright