Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience

by Brené Brown

We were packing for spring break at Disney World when Steve, who was looking in my bag, said, “Babe, should we reality-check expectations for the week?” Somewhat frustrated, I replied, “No. I think we’re good, babe.” Steve pointed to the three books I had stuffed into my carry-on bag and said, “Tell me about those.” As I started to explain that I wanted to sleep late, relax, and read some good mysteries over the course of our week away, I suddenly heard what I was saying. Who am I kidding? We’re going to be at Disney World with five kids for seven days! The only thing I’d be reading was the sign that says You Must Be This Tall to Ride This Ride. Sure enough, we were out the door by eight o’clock every morning of that vacation and I didn’t read a thing, but we had a great time—once I had reality-checked my expectations with Steve’s help.