CTP Blog #2

Monday, September 9, 2024

     

                               Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connections and the                       
      Language of Human Experience by Brené Brown

                                                

                                              

Apply or relate the theory to a real or imagined situation and explain how the theory assists in further understanding the situation relating to interpersonal communication. Include at least one ORIGINAL image (you take the photograph).

Autonomy vs. Connection: The desire to be independent versus the desire to be close and connected to others.

EX: I am the oldest of four siblings—three girls and one boy: me (20), Ana (18), Gaby (16), and Ayden (7). Despite the age differences, we all share close and cherished relationships that are often affectionate, sometimes clingy, and full of warmth. However, while we value our closeness, we also recognize the importance of personal space. We each have moments when we prefer solitude and appreciate time alone. As my mom often says, "All my children NEED their alone time... they spread out throughout the house into their own spaces," and it's true! This balance allows us to stay connected healthily and has taught us the value of operating as both individuals and a unit.

Predictability vs. Novelty: The need for stability and predictability in a relationship versus the desire for excitement and spontaneity.

EX: I’ve lived on campus since my freshman year, and along the way, I met an amazing friend who was once my roommate and is now my neighbor. Her younger sister lives just across the hall from us. Since we all have pets, we’ve created a routine to ensure they’re cared for when one of us isn’t on campus. This plan allows us to coordinate pet care seamlessly. Beyond this, we also randomly check in on each other’s pets to keep them familiar with us and help build trust among them.

Openness vs. Closedness: The tension between wanting to share personal information and maintaining privacy.

EX: I began working during my sophomore year of high school, and the experience has taught me valuable lessons. I’ve learned that it’s just as easy to be closed off as it is to be completely open. In the workplace, I aim to strike a balance by being open and sharing what’s necessary for a productive environment. This mindset came after many failed attempts at finding the right balance. Once I understood how to navigate professionalism and openness, it became a powerful tool for my growth.

While I do share certain things at work, I also choose to keep much of my personal life private—not as a way to avoid sharing, but as a means of setting healthy boundaries. These boundaries help maintain a professional atmosphere, unless sharing more is truly necessary. This approach has brought a sense of peace to my work environments. Even when coworkers share personal details and expect the same in return, I’ve learned it’s okay to either share or hold back, depending on my comfort level and the relevance to the workplace. It’s all about finding a balance that works for me and aligns with the professional context.