August 2010 Leadership Book of the Month.

Network marketing is obviously a relationship business. Whether you’re trying to build a successful business or to have a loving environment at home, you need to know how to communicate interest and concern for others.

I’m recommending you read or reread “The Five Love Languages” this month not only because it has helped me strengthen by business relationships, but it’s helped me become a better husband, father, son, brother & friend.

Of the countless ways we can show love to one another, five key categories, or five love languages, proved to be universal and comprehensive—everyone has a love language, and we all identify primarily with one of the five love languages: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, and Physical Touch.
Since The 5 Love Languages debuted in 1992, over five million copies have been sold, making The 5 Love Languages a perennial New York Times bestseller.

I hope the information within the book impacts your life as it has mine.

- Gary Hasson

Sneak peek at The Five Love Languages. Please choose the following statement that is most true of you or your loved one:

• I feel especially loved when people express how grateful they are for me, and for the simple, everyday things I do. See #1.
• I feel especially loved when a person gives me undivided attention and spends time alone with me. See #2.
• I feel especially loved by someone who brings me gifts and other tangible expressions of love. See #3.
• I feel especially loved when someone pitches in to help me, perhaps by running errands or taking on my household chores. See. #4.
• I feel especially loved when a person expresses feelings for me through physical contact and touch. See #5

1. Words of Affirmation: Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important–hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

2. Quality Time: In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there–with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby–makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.

3. Receiving Gifts: Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous–so would the absence of everyday gestures.

4. Acts of Service: Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most wants to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

5. Physical Touch: This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face–they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.

Now go get the book for your personal library and read it! - Gary Hasson