Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

 

November 11, 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!

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone Jill and I representing Jill's Kitchen at an event. Dear Empowered Reader, As I send this out on Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the individuals who have served. Thank you for your sacrifice and for stepping into the unknown to serve others. When was the last time you took a step into the unknown? I’ve had many moments of stepping into uncharted territory—one of the most memorable being the launch of Empower Possible. It was exciting to build something new but also intimidating to face the unknown. That blend of excitement and uncertainty is something I’m sure many of us have felt at pivotal moments in our lives. A few years ago my younger sister Jill experienced a similar feeling on our annual family trip to Breezy Point Resort. As we sat by the lake talking about her life and passions, she opened up about an opportunity to share her baking talents at a local vendor fair. Jill has always baked for her family with love and joy, but turning that passion into something public felt like a big leap. She was concerned about balancing this new endeavor with her other responsibilities as a mother, coach, trainer, sister, aunt, friend, wife, etc,  wondering if the benefits would outweigh the challenges. With some encouragement from me and her friends, Jill decided to go for it. She stepped out of her comfort zone to sell at events like the Bling Bling fundraiser for the Fine Arts Club and the Holiday Collections Craft Fair in Fargo, ND. Shifting from baking as a hobby to asking people to pay for her creations was daunting. It’s one thing to bring treats to family gatherings—it’s another to offer them to the world, with all the uncertainty that comes along with it. The experience taught her so much more than she expected. Jill found herself growing in confidence with each event. She learned to manage her time between family and her new venture, becoming more organized and creative in the process. With every fair, her sense of purpose grew stronger, and she realized she wasn’t just selling cookies and bread—she was sharing her passion and love for baking with others. Each interaction at the fairs helped her see the impact of her work, and the joy on her customers' faces reminded her of why she started this journey.  As she navigated this new venture, Jill found an invaluable source of strength in her "village"—her family and friends who stood by her side. Her kids pitched in by packaging treats and even helped bake some items. Her husband brainstormed ideas for new flavors, and her friends spread the word about her baked goods. Jill quickly realized that stepping out didn’t mean stepping alone. Her village not only supported her but helped her believe in her ability to succeed. It has been a great joy for me to table with Jill at these events, interact with the customers, and watch their reactions when trying her delicious baked goods. Reflecting on Jill’s journey reminded me of how vital community is, especially when we’re taking big steps in our careers or personal lives. Too often, we feel that we need to handle everything ourselves, but Jill’s journey shows that success is even richer when it’s shared with those who lift us up. Her experience is a beautiful example of the balance between independence and interdependence, a reminder that we’re often stronger when we lean on others for support. I am looking forward to seeing her in action again this month, selling her baked goods at the Holiday Collection Craft Fair on November 23rd in West Fargo, ND. If you are in the area stop by any time from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.  Reflection Questions for Your Journey: 1. What’s one area of your life where you could challenge yourself to go beyond your comfort zone?    2. Who are the people in your “village” you can lean on for support during times of change or growth?    3. How can you support others in their journeys, encouraging them to take new steps? As you reflect on these questions, remember that you’re capable of more than you know. Here’s to your next bold step and the power of the village that helps you thrive. Take care, Empowered Reader, Julie  Founder of Empower Possible Setting up for the event. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. To be of use By Marge Piercy The people I love the best jump into work head first without dallying in the shallows and swim off with sure strokes almost out of sight. They seem to become natives of that element, the black sleek heads of seals bouncing like half-submerged balls. I love people who harness themselves, an ox to a heavy cart, who pull like water buffalo, with massive patience, who strain in the mud and the muck to move things forward, who do what has to be done, again and again. I want to be with people who submerge in the task, who go into the fields to harvest and work in a row and pass the bags along, who are not parlor generals and field deserters but move in a common rhythm when the food must come in or the fire be put out. The work of the world is common as mud. Botched, it smears the hands, crumbles to dust. But the thing worth doing well done has a shape that satisfies, clean and evident. Greek amphoras for wine or oil, Hopi vases that held corn, are put in museums but you know they were made to be used. The pitcher cries for water to carry and a person for work that is real. Source: Circles on the Water: Selected Poems of Marge Piercy (Alfred A. Knopf, 1982)

Kind Words from a Mountain 10 Participant A special thanks to one of my students for sharing a few kind words about her experience. Upcoming Events Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Holiday Collections Craft Fair 2711 7th St E, West Fargo, ND, United States, North Dakota 58078Saturday, November 23rd from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm70+ local & regional artisans will have their crafts displayed for all your holiday shopping needs!

Connect with me on social media! 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.

The Art of Change: Lessons from My Career Transition

 

October 28, 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 Art of Change: Lessons from My Career Transition First Day of Work! Dear Empowered Reader, In the last newsletter, I celebrated the third anniversary of Empower Possible. Founding Empower Possible was a big change and the changes keep coming. Change is inevitable, but how we navigate it makes all the difference. Today, I’m excited to share a big shift in my life and the journey that led me here. Many of you know me as the Founder of Empower Possible, where I focus on helping individuals and organizations thrive. Until recently, I also worked full-time at Essentia Health, a rewarding and transformative role. After a lot of thought, I made the decision to resign from Essentia Health and take on a new adventure as the Change Management Coordinator and Project Director for the State of Minnesota. How I Got Here: Steps That Led to This Change Self-Reflection: The first step was to pause and reflect on my goals. I asked myself questions like, "What impact do I want to make next?" and "How can I grow while staying true to my values and interests?" Exploration: I began exploring new opportunities that felt aligned with my values. The role with the State of Minnesota really caught my attention because it offered the chance to make a bigger impact at the state level—a challenge that truly excites me. Evaluation: Once I found this opportunity, I carefully evaluated it. How would it affect my current commitments, including Empower Possible? And how did it fit into my long-term vision? Decision-Making: After weighing the pros and cons, I made the decision to embrace this new chapter. It felt like the right move to help me grow and contribute to a larger cause. Steps I Took to Make a Smooth Transition  Open Communication: I was transparent with my team at Essentia Health, making sure everyone stayed informed about the transition. Clear communication has been key in maintaining trust and ensuring a smooth handover. Strategic Planning: I created a detailed transition plan to ensure a seamless departure and a strong start in my new role. The plan included timelines, key tasks, and responsibilities to keep everything on track. Staying Committed: I remain deeply committed to Empower Possible. Balancing both roles will require careful time management, but I’m ready for the challenge! Self-Care: Managing change can be both exciting and stressful. I’m making time for self-care, like mindfulness, exercise, and rest, to stay focused and energized during this shift. Saying "See You Later": I thought a lot about how I wanted to leave the organization I have been a part of for the last three years,  I created a plan to say "see you later" to the people who made my time with Essentia so special. I arranged "see you later" gatherings for colleagues and friends. It was time to reflect on the moments we shared together and make plans to see each other again.  Creating Space to Grieve: One part of transitioning that we often overlook is the need to grieve. Even when we’re excited about what’s next, there’s still a part of us that mourns what we’re leaving behind. For me, saying goodbye to Essentia Health and the community of Duluth wasn’t just about ending a job—it was about letting go of the relationships, the routines, and the comfort of the familiar. Grief isn’t reserved for loss in the traditional sense; it’s something we feel during any major transition. Creating space to acknowledge and process these emotions is important for moving forward in a healthy way. I’ve found that allowing myself moments to reflect and feel gratitude for the experiences and people I’ve worked with has been a key part of my transition. If you’re going through a change, big or small, remember to give yourself permission to grieve. It’s okay to feel a mix of excitement and sadness as you move forward. In fact, it’s a natural part of embracing new possibilities. Reflection Questions for Navigating Your Own Change If you’re going through a transition, here are some questions that might help guide you: What’s your 'why' for considering this change? Understanding your motivation is key to making a decision that aligns with your  values. What are the potential benefits and challenges of this change? Consider the positives and potential obstacles. How can you overcome the challenges? How can you prepare for a smooth transition?  Whether in your career, personal life, or wellness journey, think about the steps you need to ensure success. Be ready for a few speed bumps. Not everything will go as planned, make a plan and be flexible! What support systems do you have in place? Identify the people, resources, or practices that will support you through this time. How does this change align with your long-term goals? Evaluate how this decision fits into your vision for the future. Change is an opportunity for growth. While it may be challenging, it also opens doors to new possibilities. As I step into this next role, I’m excited to continue this journey with you, sharing experiences and insights that can help us all embrace change with confidence and resilience. Thank you for being part of the Regenerate Your World community. Together, we can empower each other to embrace change and thrive. Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine Founder,  Empower Possible On my commute home ( I go into the office once every couple of weeks) I found a nature reserve where I can take a few moments to pause and reflect on the day. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Vocation  by Rabindranath Tagore When the gong sounds ten in the morning and I walk to school by our lane.    Every day I meet the hawker crying, "Bangles, crystal bangles!"     There is nothing to hurry him on, there is no road he must take, no place he must go to, no time when he must come home.     I wish I were a hawker, spending my day in the road, crying,"Bangles, crystal bangles!"     When at four in the afternoon I come back from the school,     I can see through the gate of that house the gardener digging the ground.     He does what he likes with his spade, he soils his clothes with dust, nobody takes him to task if he gets baked in the sun or gets wet.     I wish I were a gardener digging away at the garden with nobody to stop me from digging.     Just as it gets dark in the evening and my mother sends me to bed,     I can see through my open window the watchman walking up and down.     The lane is dark and lonely, and the street-lamp stands likea giant with one red eye in its head.     The watchman swings his lantern and walks with his shadow at his side, and never once goes to bed in his life.     I wish I were a watchman walking the streets all night, chasing the shadows with my lantern.

Connect with me on social media! 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.

Insider Insights: Celebrating Three Years

 

October 16, 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!

Insider Insights: Celebrating Three Years Three-year celebration! Happy birthday Empower Possible! Dear Empowered Reader, I can hardly believe it—it’s been three years since I took the leap and launched Empower Possible! What started as a dream fueled by my own experiences of burnout turned into a passion for helping people find harmony in their hectic lives and blossomed into something more meaningful than I could have imagined. Today, I’m reflecting on how much we’ve grown together, and I feel overwhelming gratitude for this incredible journey. When I first started Empower Possible, it was just me, an idea, and much hope. I had a vision, but I wasn’t sure how it would unfold. Those early days were filled with excitement and, yes, plenty of uncertainty. I wondered if anyone would join me on this mission to build a life where wellness wasn’t just a goal, but a daily practice. And then, slowly but surely, you did. We began planting seeds of change together, and now here we are—a community that has turned wellness into something real, practical, and transformative. I’ll never forget the first workshop I hosted. I was nervous, hoping it would resonate with the attendees, but I quickly realized that this wasn’t just about me teaching—it was about us learning from each other. Each one of you has shared something that’s impacted me deeply—your stories, your challenges, your moments of growth. They’ve become the foundation of Empower Possible, reminding me every day why I started this in the first place. Let me share one pivotal moment with you. It was about six months after launching Empower Possible, and I was feeling a sense of burnout creeping in again. Yes, even after all my efforts to create harmony, I realized I wasn’t following the advice I was giving. My calendar was overbooked, and I had little time for personal regeneration. One weekend, I decided to take a solo hike in the woods—a place I’ve always gone to recharge. I left my phone in the car and immersed myself in nature. As I walked, I reflected on what truly mattered to me and made a promise to myself: I would not lose sight of the well-being practices I had worked so hard to instill. That hike became a turning point, reminding me that regeneration is not a one-time event but a continuous practice that requires attention and intention. It was a lesson that shaped how I lead Empower Possible and serve this community today. I’d love for you to take a moment and reflect on your journey. Think back to three years ago—where were you in your well-being journey compared to today? What have you discovered about yourself, your habits, or your mindset that has helped you grow? And most importantly, how can you continue to prioritize your own well-being as you move forward into the next chapter of your life? For me, these three years have reinforced one powerful truth: transformation is never easy, but it is always worth it. Every step forward, no matter how small, gets us closer to a life that feels aligned with who we truly are. There were moments when I wasn’t sure I was moving in the right direction—moments when doubt crept in—but every time, this community reminded me of the importance of persistence and the beauty of progress. Another experience that profoundly shaped my approach to well-being came just last year. I was in the middle of preparing for a big keynote speech, and, once again, I found myself stretched thin. I decided to plan a small day retreat with a couple of friends.  I was hesitant to take time away however I knew how important it is to rest and recharge. During that day away, I had the chance to unplug, take a long walk in the woods, and just "be". It wasn’t until I slowed down that I realized how much I had been running on empty. That experience reminded me of the power of rest and reflection, and how essential they are for regeneration. It’s a lesson I now incorporate into every facet of my life and work—recognizing that regeneration comes from giving ourselves space to breathe, reflect, and recharge. Without it, we cannot sustain our well-being. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from you is that we never have to walk this path alone. I’ve seen firsthand how the connections we’ve built here are the cornerstone of personal growth. Each of you has shown me the incredible strength that comes from having a village—a support system that celebrates our wins, picks us up after setbacks, and reminds us of our power. Speaking of power, I want to share a quote about power: “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker. This hits home because it’s the core of what Empower Possible is all about—helping you remember that you already have the power to shape your life, your well-being, and your future. The small, daily choices you make? They add up, and they are so much more impactful than we often realize. Don’t underestimate the power of those little steps—they can lead to life-changing transformations. As I look ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come. I have new programs and opportunities on the horizon—whether it’s diving deeper into our Mountain 10 workshops, new podcast guest appearances, or continuing to connect through these newsletters.  There’s so much more we can accomplish together, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being part of this community. Empower Possible wouldn’t be what it is without each of you. Here’s to many more years of growth, empowerment, and well-being! With heartfelt gratitude,   Julie Zaruba Fountaine   Founder, Empower Possible Screen capture of a brainstorming activity I completed as I was dreaming of what Empower Possible could be. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Still I Rise by Maya Angelou You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise. Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? ’Cause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room. Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I’ll rise. Did you want to see me broken? Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops, Weakened by my soulful cries? Does my haughtiness offend you? Don’t you take it awful hard ’Cause I laugh like I’ve got gold mines Diggin’ in my own backyard. You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise. Does my sexiness upset you? Does it come as a surprise That I dance like I’ve got diamonds At the meeting of my thighs? Out of the huts of history’s shame I rise Up from a past that’s rooted in pain I rise I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide, Welling and swelling I bear in the tide. Leaving behind nights of terror and fear I rise Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear I rise Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise I rise I rise. From And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou. Copyright © 1978 by Maya Angelou.

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © EMPOWERPossible 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