“Anxiously Attached: Becoming More Secure in Life and Love”

Jessica Baum's insightful book, "Anxiously Attached: Becoming More Secure in Life and Love” explores the intricate world of attachment styles and personal growth. Baum, a licensed mental health counsellor, offers a compelling guide to understanding and transforming anxious attachment behaviour, drawing on her professional experience and personal journey.

"Anxiously Attached" delves deep into the concept of anxious attachment, a style that develops in early childhood and profoundly influences how individuals relate to others in their adult relationships. Baum's approach is both empathetic and educational, making the book a valuable resource for those who find themselves struggling with insecurity and anxiety in relationships.

The book is structured to first educate the reader about the origins and characteristics of anxious attachment. Baum does an exceptional job of explaining complex psychological theories in an accessible manner, making the book approachable for a non-specialist audience. She uses a blend of personal anecdotes, client stories, and psychological insights, creating a narrative that is as engaging as it is informative.

A standout feature of "Anxiously Attached" is its practicality. Baum provides readers with actionable strategies and exercises to develop more secure attachment behaviours. These include mindfulness practices, self-reflection exercises, and tips for building healthier relationships. Readers seeking tangible steps to improve their relational patterns will find this aspect particularly beneficial.

However, the book is not just a how-to guide. It's a journey of self-discovery and understanding. Baum encourages readers to explore their past, understand its impact on their present, and take proactive steps towards a healthier emotional future. This holistic approach is both empowering and challenging, as it requires the reader to confront and work through deeply ingrained patterns.

One potential limitation is that the book focuses primarily on anxious attachment, providing less content on other attachment styles like avoidant or disorganised. Nonetheless, the insights offered are universally relevant, as they touch on core human needs for connection and security.

IMO, this book is an enlightening read for anyone looking to understand their emotional patterns in relationships better as well as how to build stronger, healthier, and more secure relationships.