Perfect couples do not exist, nor do perfect families. Yet in our photoshopped Instagrammable world, where we only present flawless versions of ourselves, we are easily tricked into believing they do. Clinical psychologist Dr. Alyson Nerenberg has spent 30 years listening to couples, families, executives, celebrities, and professional athletes, and is here to share the truth. Whether we are willing to admit it or not, every one of us experiences challenges in our relationships.

While many books have been written about overcoming our own perfectionism, rarely has one described our tendency to expect perfection from others. How do we cope when our illusions of flawless relationships are shattered? What do we do when we discover extramarital affairs, addiction, financial betrayal, or dishonesty from our partners? What happens when we realize our children are in crisis? In those moments, we have several decisions to make: We can face our loved ones, we can deal with our own vulnerabilities, or we can run. 

With wisdom and compassion, Dr. Nerenberg thoroughly explores the origins of perfectionism and how it keeps us stuck in a cycle of disappointment, anger, and resentment. Expertly combining psychological theory, popular culture, her patients' life-changing moments, and her own challenges and growth, Dr. Nerenberg transforms trauma into triumph. Through case studies and powerful tools, including 12 clarifying questions that help us decide whether to stay or leave our relationships, she helps us write a new story where we overcome our adversities and find meaning in our heartbreaks.