The Journal of Best Practices

The Journal of Best Practices chronicles David Finch's experiences after receiving an Asperger's syndrome diagnosis at age 30, while married with children. Finch begins documenting behavioral guidelines and relationship strategies in a notebook, determined to save his marriage and become a better husband. Using his engineering background and methodical nature, Finch creates a system of written "best practices" to navigate social situations and understand his wife's needs. His journal entries range from basic social rules to complex relationship dynamics, all filtered through his unique perspective. The narrative follows Finch's efforts to implement his growing collection of insights and observations in real-world situations with his family. His commitment to personal growth leads him to examine and adjust ingrained patterns of behavior that had previously caused friction in his relationships. This memoir illuminates the intersection of marriage, neurodiversity, and self-improvement through one man's systematic approach to change. The book demonstrates how understanding oneself can transform relationships and create new possibilities for connection.

Readers connect with Finch's raw honesty and self-deprecating humor in describing his marriage struggles after his Asperger's diagnosis. Many appreciate his practical insights and specific examples of relationship improvements through behavioral changes. Readers liked: - Clear, actionable steps that apply beyond autism/marriage - Balance of humor with serious relationship advice - Personal growth journey told without self-pity - Concrete examples of communication improvements Common criticisms: - Repetitive anecdotes and concepts - Focus primarily on male perspective - Some found the tone too casual for serious subject matter - Limited discussion of wife's point of view Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (8,400+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (850+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.3/5 (50+ ratings) One reader noted: "His methodical approach to fixing his marriage reads like a field guide for relationships." Another criticized: "Wanted more insight into how his wife coped with the challenges."

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🔹 David Finch received his Asperger's diagnosis at age 30, after being married for five years – the discovery helped him understand lifelong social challenges and sparked his journey to save his marriage. 💫 The book originated from actual journal entries Finch kept, writing down "best practices" for being a better husband and managing daily life with Asperger's. 🔹 His wife Kristen, a speech pathologist who worked with children on the autism spectrum, was the first to recognize David might have Asperger's syndrome. 💫 The author went from being a music producer to becoming a successful speaker and relationship consultant after the book's publication, helping other couples affected by Asperger's. 🔹 Many of Finch's "best practices" focus on seemingly simple tasks that neurotypical people often take for granted, such as making eye contact during conversations or remembering to ask about his wife's day.