Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience
| Author: Brené Brown, 2021
What’s It All About?
In her book, Brené Brown unpacks 87 emotions and takes us on a journey of connection. One of my favorite things about Brené is how she really helps others not only understand the necessary information, but shows ways to turn that information into skills and actions. She describes it as a new universe of choices and second chances. As someone who has struggled with talking about emotions, I’m grateful for those second chances.
In my coaching, I see recurring struggles that come from a lack of connection. Oftentimes, these struggles start with the team, then evolve into a bigger issue where the leader does not have the team behind them—and the problem is usually disconnect. This goes to show how it all comes back to connection.
I like the term emotional granularity, or getting more specific with your own emotion so you can better articulate your feelings. If you want to improve how you connect with others, you need to be able to share your own feelings.
Trust always plays an important role. It has a great value because of the desire to gain it, but also the difficult it takes to build it and the simplicity of losing it.
Favorite Quote
“Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgement; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship”
Biggest Takeaway
What does all this mean? Why do we always need to come back to emotions? With self-awareness, it is important to know how you show up before you can make improvements in yourself. To lead a team and make improvements, it always starts with yourself. If you cannot make improvements in your own behavior, how can you gain the skills to lead others? This is the repeat problem we see in so many manufacturing plants. Leadership at the top wants to improve the team, but skips the hard work on themselves. This is why leadership training can be critical on the front line, and why not tying in the leadership team drives further disconnect with their teams.
Bonus information
As demonstrated in Brené Brown’s research, people with deeper relationships also are happier, healthier, and better equipped to handle those stressful moments in life. Doesn’t that sound great? Do yourself a favor and dive into this book – you’ll walk away feeling more connected to who you are!
Reviewed by: Trevor Blondeel, July 5, 2022
At Manufacturing Greatness, Trevor Blondeel works with manufacturers to connect the top to the shop floor. If you’re ready to improve your own organization, contact Trevor to learn how Manufacturing Greatness can help you build stronger leaders and develop a dynamic, high-performing workplace.