Summary

In November 2006, Brené Brown was surprised by her own research into human behavior. Up until then, she had been studying and researching difficult emotions like shame, fear, and vulnerability. However, among her research there now emerged stories and patterns of people who were living amazing and inspiring lives. Brené dubbed this way of living as Wholehearted and began analyzing the recurring themes in these people and their stories to determine how they achieve this Wholeheartedness. After uncovering the similarities and patterns in the lives of these Wholehearted people, Brené was surprised to learn that she herself wasn't living Wholeheartedly. Concerned with following the rules and doing things "right," Brené realized that Wholehearted living is about "loving ourselves" and "embracing our tenderness and vulnerability" (xi). Brené decided to work with a therapist and the following year was a combination breakdown/spiritual awakening. Slowly, Brené began...