In the final part of The Art of Loving, Fromm addresses the practical aspects of developing the capacity to love. He begins by acknowledging that learning to love requires practice, just like mastering any other art form. This practice necessitates several fundamental elements that apply universally across all disciplines.

Fromm identifies discipline as the first essential component. He observes that modern individuals often lack self-discipline outside their work environments. The routinization of professional life frequently leads to rebellion against structure in personal time, resulting in what Fromm characterizes as infantile self-indulgence. He suggests establishing regular routines for activities like meditation, reading, and listening to music, not as externally imposed rules but as expressions of personal will.

Concentration represents the second vital element. Fromm notes that contemporary culture promotes distracted living. He advocates practicing solitude as a pathway to developing concentration, arguing paradoxically that the ability to be alone forms the foundation for the ability to love another person. He recommends simple exercises like following one’s breathing and attempting to clear the mind of distracting thoughts. Additionally, he emphasizes avoiding trivial conversations and unproductive social connections.

Patience constitutes the third element. Fromm contrasts this quality with the modern fixation on speed and immediate results.