Kelly presents seven levels through which we are able to experience intimacy, taking us from the first level 'The Intimacy of Cliche' to the seventh, 'The intimacy of Legitimate Needs.' Throughout he tracks our progression as we share more and more about ourselves with others, while safe-guarding us from mistakes that can be made at each stage. Kelly explores each level in depth by revealing the interactions that take place, the physical life of each level and the potential for finding our 'best-self' throughout. The book includes strategies for self-acceptance, even when exploring the worst within us, as we shed old ideas and behaviors and move to greater levels of intimacy.