Brené Brown’s first TED talk, which describes her journey as a researcher into connection, and how it led her into the understanding of shame and the fear of disconnection. During her research, spanning 6 years and countless stories from thousands of people, she identified a group who lived “whole heartedly”. These people felt a high sense of love and belonging – precisely because they believed they were worthy of it. A few qualities distinguished these people:

  • courage to tell the story of who they were with all of their heart and the courage to be imperfect
  • compassion of themselves and others
  • connection to their truth
  • vulnerability as a necessary quality

As a result of her studies, Brown has recommendations for us, based on the lessons learnt from these whole hearted people.

  • let yourself be fully seen
  • love with your whole hearts even if there are no guarantees
  • practice gratitude and joy
  • believe you are good enough and worthy.