Before becoming the “Buddhist brain guy” Dr. Rick spent over 30 years working in private practice as a couples counselor and family therapist. Today we’re leaning on that experience, and learning what we can do to build healthier, happier, and more fulfilling relationships.Today’s episode was based on Rick’s new book Making Great Relationships: Simple Practices for Solving Conflicts, Building Connection, and Fostering Love. Follow this link if you’d like to order it.Watch the Episode: Prefer watching video? You can watch this episode on YouTube.Key Topics:0:00: Introduction and Rick’s upcoming book3:20: The importance of deliberate action in making a relationship 5:50: 6 practical steps from Rick’s new book10:05: The relationship we have with ourselves13:10: When others don’t want the same thing18:50: Rick’s recurring observations in relationship counseling25:00: Balancing intimacy and autonomy, and asserting what you want30:50: Staying on topic and establishing thorough agreements36:25: Sticking to our needs without alienating others37:45: Tolerating discomfort40:20: Getting to truth with others41:40: RecapSupport the Podcast: We're now on Patreon! If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link.Sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp, and you can join over a million people using the world’s largest online counseling platform. Visit betterhelp.com/beingwell for 10% off your first month!Want to sleep better? Try the Calm app! Visit calm.com/beingwell for 40% off a premium subscription.