Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Building a Lattice vs. Climbing the Ladder

 

January 6, 2025

Regenerate Your World 

Build the future you want to live in.


I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but I am an optimist - I see the glass as refillable instead of half-full or half-empty. To brighten up your days, I publish the Regenerate Your World newsletter coming to your inbox on a bi-weekly basis.

Let's Get Empowered!

A Collaborative Approach to Professional Growth

Sled dogs exhibit true collaborative teamwork! 

Dear Empower Reader,


As we start the New Year, it's a perfect time to reframe our goals and embrace a more collaborative mindset. Instead of setting resolutions focused solely on climbing the career ladder, consider building a lattice of growth—one that prioritizes new experiences, relationships, and shared success. The start of the year offers a fresh opportunity to explore lateral moves, mentor others, and foster a network that empowers not just yourself but those around you. Let 2025 be the year we all rise together through collaboration, adaptability, and collective success.  We've all been exposed to the traditional narrative of success: "climb the ladder, reach the top, and enjoy the view." For decades, the metaphor of the career ladder has been deeply embedded in our understanding of what it means to "make it." But as the modern workplace continues to evolve, we are beginning to see that this rigid, hierarchical model may no longer serve us well—especially when considering the importance of flexibility, fulfillment, and collaboration in today’s dynamic world.


During a recent mentoring meeting, Matt Menke, a Planning Director with the State of Minnesota, shared a thought-provoking idea that completely reshaped how I think about career growth. He introduced the concept of a "lattice"—a network of connections and opportunities that crisscross in many directions, rather than a singular, upward climb. This lattice approach not only fosters collaboration but also creates space for personal development, team success, and long-term fulfillment.


As I reflected on Matt's insight, I realized how much this idea resonates with the values I uphold at Empower Possible—values like community, collaboration, and the power of building one another up. I also realized I have been using this approach throughout my life without giving it a name. I thank Matt for naming this concept so that I can share it with you today. In this edition of the Regenerate Your World newsletter, we’re exploring how embracing a lattice approach to professional goals can transform the way we think about success.

The idea of "climbing the ladder" implies a linear, hierarchical progression, where each person fights for the next rung, often at the expense of those around them. It’s a model based on scarcity—there are only so many spots at the top, and the assumption is that if one person succeeds, another must fail.
This competitive mindset can create tension and isolation in the workplace. It fosters an environment where people are more focused on outperforming their peers than on helping one another grow. It can also lead to burnout and dissatisfaction, especially for those who feel that their contributions are undervalued if they aren’t constantly moving upward.


While the ladder model has worked for some, it’s not without its drawbacks. It assumes that everyone’s goal is to reach the highest possible position in their field, which may not align with the desires of those who value work-life harmony, varied experiences, or long-term professional fulfillment. Additionally, it leaves little room for lateral moves, mentorship, and the development of diverse skills—things that often enrich both our personal and professional lives.

In contrast, a lattice allows for movement in multiple directions. Rather than solely focusing on climbing to the top, the lattice mindset encourages us to explore lateral moves, new experiences, and collaborative opportunities that contribute to a more holistic and fulfilling career. This approach is less about competition and more about collaboration—about finding ways to grow with others rather than at their expense.


Here are some key benefits of adopting a lattice approach to your professional growth:


The lattice model recognizes that careers aren’t always linear. Life changes, industry shifts, and personal interests evolve. A lattice allows for movement in all directions—up, down, sideways—and gives you the flexibility to adapt your career to fit your evolving goals and circumstances. Whether you’re exploring a new field, taking on a cross-functional role, or developing skills in a different area, the lattice mindset helps you grow in ways that are meaningful to you. Take it from me. I have changed careers three times and each time I felt like I was just where I needed to be in that moment. 


 When you’re focused solely on climbing the ladder, it’s easy to lose sight of the people around you. A lattice encourages you to build relationships across different areas, functions, and teams. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, collaborative projects, and a deeper understanding of how your work fits into the bigger picture. By moving laterally and engaging with a broader network, you can cultivate relationships that enrich your career and help others grow, too.


Lateral moves allow you to develop a wider range of skills and experiences, which can be just as valuable—if not more so—than traditional promotions. Whether you’re learning a new technical skill, gaining leadership experience, or developing expertise in a different area, each step in the lattice builds a stronger, more versatile foundation for your career. These varied experiences can make you a more well-rounded professional and open doors to new opportunities you may not have considered before.


Perhaps the most transformative aspect of the lattice is its emphasis on shared success. Instead of competing with others for the same limited opportunities, the lattice encourages us to lift one another up, share knowledge, and work together toward common goals. This creates a more supportive, inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed, and success is measured not by individual accomplishments alone but by the collective impact of the team.


 In my early career, I was hyper-focused on advancing as quickly as possible. I believed that climbing the ladder was the only way to prove my worth. However, over time, I began to notice that the people I admired weren’t necessarily the ones who moved up the fastest. Instead, they were the ones who took the time to build strong relationships, explore new roles, and develop a wide range of skills.


At a certain point, I decided to take a lateral move into a different department, even though it wasn’t a traditional promotion. This experience allowed me to learn a new set of skills, work with different people, and gain a broader perspective on the organization. It also allowed me to build meaningful relationships that have continued to support my growth over the years. In hindsight, this lateral move was one of the most valuable decisions I made in my career—not because it brought me closer to the top, but because it enriched my journey in ways I hadn’t anticipated.


A few years ago, I found myself in a leadership role. My team was disconnected and riddled with competing priorities. Instead of encouraging competition, I encouraged collaboration. I started to focus on how I could help them grow, too.

I began mentoring my team members and collaborating with peers on cross-functional projects. Not only did this make the work more fulfilling, but it also built a stronger sense of community and trust within our team. As we worked together and supported one another, we achieved collective success—and my own professional growth followed naturally. This experience taught me that true success isn’t about standing out alone; it’s about rising together.

As a woman, I often face unique challenges in the workforce. We’re frequently told that there are limited seats at the table, and we must compete with one another for those few spots. But what if we reframed this narrative? What if, instead of competing, we focused on lifting each other up and building a supportive network that enables all of us to succeed?


Maya Angelou once said, “I am grateful to be a woman. I must have done something great in another life.” This quote reminds me of the power we hold as women—not just in our ability to achieve great things individually but in our capacity to create meaningful change together. When we adopt a lattice mindset and focus on collaboration over competition, we create an environment where we can all thrive. We celebrate one another’s successes, share knowledge, and work together to break down barriers.


Reflection Questions:

 1. Have there been moments in your career when you felt the pressure to compete rather than collaborate? How did this impact your experience?  


2. How can you reframe your professional goals to focus on building a lattice rather than climbing a ladder?  


3. What steps can you take to support the growth of others in your network while also advancing your own career?


An Affirmation:

"I am building a career lattice, embracing growth through collaboration, adaptability, and shared success. Together, we rise, supporting one another as we create meaningful and fulfilling opportunities."


At Empower Possible, I believe that success is not a zero-sum game. By adopting a lattice approach to career growth, we can build stronger, more fulfilling careers that are based on collaboration, adaptability, and shared success. Whether you’re taking a lateral move to gain new skills, mentoring a colleague, or building relationships across your organization, each step in your journey is an opportunity to grow—not just for yourself, but for those around you.


As you reflect on your professional goals, I encourage you to think about how you can build your own lattice. How can you move in ways that create more opportunities for learning, collaboration, and shared success? By shifting from competition to collaboration, we can all rise together.


Thank you, as always, for being a part of the Empower Possible community. Let’s continue to build each other up and create meaningful change—one step at a time.


Take Care, Dear Reader,  


Julie Zaruba Fountaine  

Founder of Empower Possible

 

A beautiful garden and lattice. This photo was taken on a trip to Montreal. 

 
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The Beauty of Collaboration

Author Unknown

In the beauty of collaboration,We find a sense of inspiration,As we work together, hand in hand,To achieve what we never can.
With our unique skills and expertise,We come together, to find peace,In a world that’s often so chaotic,We build a team, that’s quite symbiotic.


The beauty of collaboration,Is that it brings us, a new sensation,Of working towards, a common goal,And creating something, that’s whole.

We each bring, a piece of the puzzle,And together, we can easily muzzle,The challenges, that come our way,As we work towards, a brighter day.


In the beauty of collaboration,We find the strength, for motivation,To push through, and persevere,Through the obstacles, that we fear.
We lift each other, when we fall,And encourage, to give it our all,We celebrate, when we succeed,And lend a hand, when there’s a need.


In the beauty of collaboration,We find a sense, of true elation,As we work together, as a team,To create, something more than a dream.
So let us embrace, the beauty of collaboration,And work together, towards our inspiration,To achieve what we never can,In the beauty, of working hand in hand.

 
 

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Copyright © EMPOWER Possible

 Northfield, United States


EMPOWER Possible is dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to organize and act together to regenerate our world through Self, Social, and Systems transformation. 


info@empowerpossible.com \ Website \ Mission


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Disclaimer:
This newsletter contains content that has been modified and inspired by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. While we use ChatGPT to enhance our content, it should not be considered professional advice. For specific concerns or decisions, please consult with a qualified professional or trusted source. The newsletter authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided by or inspired by ChatGPT.

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Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Embracing Change and Finding New Roots

 

 

December 24, 2024

Regenerate Your World 

Build the future you want to live in.


I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but I am an optimist - I see the glass as refillable instead of half-full or half-empty. To brighten up your days, I publish the Regenerate Your World newsletter coming to your inbox on a bi-weekly basis.

Let's Get Empowered!

Embracing Change and Finding New Roots

The view from Thompson Hill, saying goodbye and see you later to Duluth.

Dear Empowered Reader,


If you’ve been following the Regenerate Your World Newsletter, you know that the past few months have brought significant changes for me—moving to a new city and starting a new chapter in my career. Just six months ago, my husband and I packed up our lives in Duluth, MN, and embarked on an unexpected journey to Northfield, MN. A year ago, I couldn’t have imagined leaving Duluth. The idea of leaving our friends, our outdoor lifestyle, and the comfort and familiarity of Duluth were hard to let go of. Yet, this leap of faith has brought opportunities, growth, and connections that I never anticipated—and for which I am deeply grateful.


One of the most surprising blessings has been the professional opportunities that opened up after the move. Shortly after settling into Northfield, a friend forwarded me a job posting for a Change Management Coordinator and Planning Director role. Back in Duluth, the position would have been out of reach—literally and figuratively. The commute to St. Paul, over two hours away, would have made it impossible. But in Northfield, St. Paul is less than an hour’s drive, and suddenly, the position felt within reach.


At first, I hesitated to apply. It was outside my comfort zone—a leap into the unknown. But taking that step has been transformative. This role has aligned with my passions, expanded my perspectives, and brought professional fulfillment I hadn’t expected. Reflecting on this decision, I’m reminded of John A. Shedd’s words: “A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” Leaving the safe harbor of Duluth allowed me to navigate new waters, full of both challenges and rewards.


Moving closer to family has been another unexpected gift. I’ve cherished the precious moments spent with my father-in-law during his time in hospice—moments of connection and gratitude that I’ll carry with me forever. I’ve also had the chance to deepen relationships with my parents, three sisters, and close friends who now live just around the corner. These relationships have anchored me through this transition, filling my days with laughter, meaningful conversations, and small but significant moments I didn’t realize I had been missing.


Still, there are things I miss about Duluth: the calming presence of Lake Superior, the friendly faces I’d see on every errand, and the comfort of a close-knit community. Change doesn’t erase the connections or memories of where we’ve been—it adds layers to our journey. Regular visits and phone calls with friends in Duluth remind me that while I’ve left the harbor, the anchor points of my past remain. Maya Angelou said it best: “You can’t really know where you are going until you know where you have been.”


As I reflect on these past six months, the changing seasons have mirrored my own transition. The Winter Solstice, which marked the longest night of the year, is a time of reflection and renewal. It symbolizes leaving behind the light of what was familiar to embrace the unknown, only to find that the light returns—brighter and fuller than before. This season invites us to pause, acknowledge our growth, and welcome new beginnings with open hearts.


Reflection Questions for You:

  • What recent changes in your life have pushed you out of your comfort zone?
  • How have you deepened connections with the people around you?
  • Which aspects of your past do you cherish as you embrace the possibilities of the future?


An Affirmation for You:
I am resilient and open to change. I honor my past while embracing the possibilities of my future.


In this season of transition, I am reminded of the importance of finding harmony—between the old and the new, the familiar and the unfamiliar, the challenging and the comforting. In the Art of Hosting practice, this harmony is captured by the two-loop model: for a new system to emerge, the old system must compost or transform.


Like the Solstice, this season of change invites us all to seek harmony in the contrasts of life. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. May this season bring you peace, clarity, and renewal.


Take Care Dear Reader,


Julie

 

View during a Winter Solstice Hike in Duluth, MN.

 
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The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper 

So the shortest day came, and the year died,
And everywhere down the centuries of the snow-white world
Came people singing, dancing,
To drive the dark away.
They lighted candles in the winter trees;
They hung their homes with evergreen;
They burned beseeching fires all night long
To keep the year alive,
And when the new year’s sunshine blazed awake
They shouted, reveling.
Through all the frosty ages you can hear them
Echoing behind us—Listen!!
All the long echoes sing the same delight,
This shortest day,
As promise wakens in the sleeping land:
They carol, feast, give thanks,
And dearly love their friends,
And hope for peace.
And so do we, here, now,
This year and every year.
Welcome Yule!

 
 

In the Media

I'm thrilled to share my story as featured in Canvas Rebel. This opportunity allowed me to reflect on the why behind Empower Possible and the mission that drives me daily—to help individuals and organizations navigate wellness and change in achievable, authentic, and meaningful ways.

In this interview, I share insights into:
How my personal experiences shaped my approach to wellness and change management.
Challenges I’ve overcome and the lessons learned along the way.
The values and vision that guide the work I do through Empower Possible.
For anyone seeking inspiration to step into their purpose or looking for ways to create harmony in their personal and professional lives, I hope my journey resonates with you and I would love to connect!

To learn more about my story, check out the article published by Canvas Rebel.

Connect with me on social media!

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Copyright © EMPOWER Possible

 Northfield, United States


EMPOWER Possible is dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to organize and act together to regenerate our world through Self, Social, and Systems transformation. 


info@empowerpossible.com \ Website \ Mission


You are receiving this email because you expressed an interest in my work—thank you! You can change your email preferences or unsubscribe at any time. 

Disclaimer:
This newsletter contains content that has been modified and inspired by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. While we use ChatGPT to enhance our content, it should not be considered professional advice. For specific concerns or decisions, please consult with a qualified professional or trusted source. The newsletter authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided by or inspired by ChatGPT.

Monday, December 9, 2024

The Power of Bold Requests

 

 

December 9, 2024

Regenerate Your World 

Build the future you want to live in.


I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but I am an optimist - I see the glass as refillable instead of half-full or half-empty. To brighten up your days, I publish the Regenerate Your World newsletter coming to your inbox on a bi-weekly basis.

Let's Get Empowered!

The Power of Bold Requests

Dear Empowered Reader,


In this newsletter, I invited Linda Brandt—a passionate community builder and advocate for underrepresented voices—to share her story on the power of bold requests. We first met over a decade ago at a health promotion conference, where we discovered not only our shared habit of working on our feet but also our similar philosophies on leadership and community-building.

 

Linda has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive communities where connection and collaboration are key. Here, she takes us back to a life-changing moment in 2013, when an ambitious idea led her to an unexpected meeting with Sheryl Sandberg, then COO of Facebook and author of Lean In. Through Linda’s reflections, we see how the simple act of asking—even when it feels intimidating—can open doors to deeper relationships, ongoing mentorship, and new possibilities.


Linda’s story encourages us to think about the people in our own lives who support our goals and how we can nurture these relationships by asking for the help we need, no matter how bold. As Linda demonstrates, our “genies” may be closer than we think, ready to grant our wishes if only we dare to ask. What follows is Linda's story.

Sheryl and Linda at Fort Snelling Officer’s Club women’s restroom

Sheryl and Linda at Fort Snelling Officer’s Club women’s restroom

The Power of Bold Requests


In the fall of 2013, after a series of twists and turns, I was stunned to learn that then Facebook COO and Lean In author Sheryl Sandberg was coming to my home to meet with my Lean In circle. What was once a wild idea I had thrown out while researching meeting locations was now going to happen. To give you a sense of the magnitude of this personal earthquake, I called no fewer than 100 people to share this news. I even stopped by a coffee shop to tell one friend in-person. One Lean In leader cried upon hearing the news.


When I shared the news with my friend Alexis, he offered advice that has stayed with me. He said, “Meeting Sheryl is like meeting a genie. She can grant your wishes if she wants to, so you better have them ready.” 


Holy cow. I could immediately tell that Alexis’ advice was solid and useful. It helped that I knew Alexis had taken big risks himself. That said, his advice was a lot for me to process. Like many people who join Lean In, I am often “leaning in to leaning in.” Knowing what I truly want to lean in to doesn’t come easily for me, especially when the stakes feel high. I know I am not alone in this. In my experience it’s harder to know and express your needs, much less your wants, when you have internalized low expectations and scarcity. Sheryl Sandberg calls this “the tyranny of low expectations.” 


My initial reaction to Alexis’ advice was, “What could I possibly ask Sheryl for?” Building the Lean In Together MSP community was already a dream come true. Becoming a Lean In leader had already significantly expanded my world, including this opportunity to meet a woman I greatly admired. “Why would I ask for more? Shouldn’t that be enough?” When I look inside myself, I see that this difficulty in wanting more originates in old feelings of heartbreak. It was heartbreaking to grow up wondering if my basic needs were going to be met. It was also equally heartbreaking to know that there were people who had more than enough and yet ignored others’ unmet needs.* 


All this to say,  Alexis’ counsel to “have my wishes ready” was a tall order. Talking to Sheryl required skills that were outside my comfort zone and my socialization as a female.


Fortunately, I’ve learned to rely on trusted friends and advisors when I am outside my depth. One of those trusted people is Evelyn, a former house cleaner living in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Evelyn helped me realize that the best thing to ask a genie for is more wishes. 

Lean In Group

Sheryl at Linda’s home

Asking for more wishes meant building an ongoing relationship with Sheryl. Thus, soon after her visit to my home, I started sending her updates on the Lean In Together Minneapolis - St. Paul Network. I continue to send those updates to this day, 11 years later.


Coming up to the present day, in my latest update to Sheryl I let her know that I will be in the San Francisco Bay area, where she lives, for much of November and December. Sheryl emailed me back that she would love to see me. I was over the moon since this would be our first one-on-one meeting not associated with a Lean In Network leaders event. The joy I felt upon receiving Sheryl's message is captured in the watercolor I drew.

Linda and her drawing

Linda with one of her paintings.

 

Before I lost my courage, I quickly responded to Sheryl’s invitation by asking, “Is it too bold to request a ‘walk and talk’ meeting?” I am now having my walk-and-talk with Sheryl on Monday, December 16. Will I have my wishes ready by then? Yes! Am I hoping she has wishes to ask of me as well? Of course. My main wish is still for more wishes. Ideally, this be the first of many walks as we continue to support each other in the years ahead.


If you are wondering how this story might help you in your own life journey, I like how you think. My advice is to make a list of the people who want to support you in going after your dreams and goals. The people on this list are your genies. What bold requests might you make of them? What habits or structures could you put in place, or re-commit to, to keep your genies close in our fast-moving world? For example, might recurring calendar meetings help you stay in touch? 

Watercolor Linda painted.

Building relationships with the people who want to help you thrive is such a great way to invest in yourself. Specifically, I encourage you to find fun ways to support, appreciate and update the genies in your life. I suspect you find, like I have, that leaning into the discomfort and asking your genies for help will make your relationship even stronger. 
Right from the start in 2013 we called our Network Lean In Together Minneapolis- St. Paul because we know going after your dreams and goals is way more fun with company.


I’d love to hear from you. In particular, I’d love to hear what bold actions you are taking or considering taking. You can find me on LinkedIn or at lindabrandtmph@gmail.com


* I am grateful to Jo Saunders for teaching me that greed has two elements: taking more than you need and being indifferent to the needs of others. I find this definition so useful that I dream of one day putting it on a billboard.


 

As you just read Linda's story. I would like to share more about Linda. 

Linda Brandt is a community builder who empowers underrepresented leaders. She’s passionate about fostering connection, collaboration, and innovation. She’s eager to share her experiences in creating inclusive and engaging communities. In her journey from a bold request to an enduring relationship with Sheryl Sandberg, Linda shows us that bold asks are not just about taking risks—they’re about honoring the people who want to see us thrive. By leaning into the discomfort of asking for what we truly need, Linda reminds us that we can build meaningful connections with our own “genies.”
Reflecting on Linda’s story, I’m reminded of the importance of fostering strong, supportive relationships in both personal and professional spheres. Making these connections a priority is not always easy, but as Linda shows, it’s a worthwhile investment in our personal growth. 


So take a moment to think about the bold requests you could make and the people who are willing to support you along the way. 


Like Linda, you may find that asking for support and guidance opens doors you hadn’t imagined.


Take care, dear reader,

Julie

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Lean In

by 

Ana Maria Santuario

When you are all alone in suffering,

Lean into yourself.


Know this too shall pass…

And lean into it all.
For it is by walking through the darkest of days,


That you’re returned to the light within your own self.

There is no other way to navigate a storm when you are its eye

You must simply weather it, and pray for safe passage through.


When you are alone, be alone,

And know that this too shall pass.


© Santuario, Ana Maria (2024). Mirror, Mirror, Collection 1. Faith in Change Publishing, London.

 
 

Upcoming Events

Mountain 10 Workshops


What is Mountain 10?     

                                                                                                                                                   During this three-hour workshop, we will focus on accessing your inner wisdom to bring about the changes you deeply desire in your life. We will use the Mountain 10 process, a proven, new technology for deep reflection on human change. It is based on the conviction that every person has the most important answers about direction, purpose, and calling within them. This directed reflection process leads you through four terrains of exploration, stopping at points on the journey to consider key questions about awareness, letting go, vision, and realization. The terrains of your journey will take you into deeper observation of your feelings, thoughts, and images. You will explore what you need to let go of as you truly seek what you really want. We will open a space for a new vision and consider the practical steps to actualize that vision. We will deepen our insights in small circles of trust. Journaling and guided reflection will be used throughout the journey.


Click HERE to sign up to be on the waitlist for the next workshop. I will reach out once a workshop is scheduled that meets your availability.


Please reach out if you have any questions, info@empowerpossible.com



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Copyright © EMPOWER Possible

Northfield, MN, USA


EMPOWER Possible is dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to organize and act together to regenerate our world through Self, Social, and Systems transformation. 


info@empowerpossible.com \ Website \ Mission


You are receiving this email because you expressed an interest in my work—thank you! You can change your email preferences or unsubscribe at any time. 

Disclaimer:
This newsletter contains content that has been modified and inspired by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. While we use ChatGPT to enhance our content, it should not be considered professional advice. For specific concerns or decisions, please consult with a qualified professional or trusted source. The newsletter authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided by or inspired by ChatGPT.

Building a Lattice vs. Climbing the Ladder

  January 6, 2025 Regenerate Your World  Build the future you want to live in. I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but ...