The Power of Contentedness

 

November 25, 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 Contentedness I am often most content in nature.  Dear Empowered Reader, As I took time to think about what to share for this edition of the newsletter the topic of happiness came to mind. Writing this newsletter at the end of November the topic of happiness is especially relevant as we enter the holiday season, a time often marked by high expectations and the pressure to feel happy and fulfilled.  For many, this period becomes a whirlwind of busyness and external demands, leaving little room for reflection or contentment. As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reassess our priorities, and focus on cultivating a sense of contentment rather than chasing fleeting moments of happiness. The goal of this newsletter is to invite you to step back from the hustle and reconnect with what truly matters, setting the stage for a more mindful and fulfilling close to the year. In a world that constantly tells us to "chase happiness" and "pursue more," it's easy to feel like we’re always falling short. But what if happiness, as it's often portrayed, isn’t the ultimate goal? What if the secret to a fulfilling life isn’t found in constant pursuit, but in learning to appreciate the present moment, to embrace the here and now? As we move through our careers and personal lives, it's time to redefine what success and well-being truly mean—and today, I want to explore the power of contentedness. "Contentment is natural wealth, luxury is artificial poverty." – Socrates This quote from Socrates reminds us that true wealth lies not in possessions or accomplishments, but in appreciating what we already have. Yes, there is truth that having your basic needs met is vital and I agree but what about once your needs are met? What then?  It's a radical shift from the message we often receive: that we must always strive for more—more success, more recognition, more happiness. But this endless chase can lead to dissatisfaction and burnout, rather than fulfillment. It's here that contentedness offers an alternative path, one that allows us to find peace and joy in the present moment, regardless of external circumstances. One of the reasons contentment is so powerful is because it counteracts what psychologists call the hedonic treadmill. This concept explains how we quickly return to a baseline level of happiness after positive or negative life events. No matter how exciting a promotion, vacation, or new achievement might be, the thrill wears off, and we find ourselves wanting more. The pursuit of happiness becomes like running on a treadmill—we expend effort, but we never truly get anywhere. Research shows that even major life changes, like winning the lottery or experiencing a significant setback, only temporarily affect our happiness. In time, we return to our pre-existing levels of happiness. This is why chasing happiness, as it’s traditionally defined, can leave us feeling perpetually unsatisfied. Contentment, on the other hand, teaches us to step off the treadmill and appreciate the steady joy found in everyday moments. "Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product." – Eleanor Roosevelt Eleanor Roosevelt’s wisdom hits at the heart of what many of us misunderstand about happiness. It’s not something we can achieve by constantly striving. Instead, it's something that arises naturally when we focus on living with purpose, cultivating relationships, and being present. This shift from happiness as an outcome to contentedness as a practice is one that can transform how we approach both our personal and professional lives. I’ll be honest—there was a time when I believed the next accomplishment or the next milestone would finally bring me the lasting happiness I was seeking. I thought if I could just reach the next level in my career or hit a personal goal, I’d feel complete. But after each success, I found myself wanting more, wondering why the satisfaction didn’t last. A turning point came during a particularly intense period of juggling multiple projects and turning down invitations from family and friends so that I could work extra hours. One afternoon, I paused to reflect on what was truly driving me and what is it that I truly value.  I realized that in my relentless pursuit of doing more, I was missing out on appreciating what I already had—an amazing community, fulfilling work, and the opportunity to make a real impact. That realization was the beginning of my journey toward contentedness. I began to focus less on external achievements and more on cultivating a sense of peace and satisfaction with the life I was living in the moment. Research supports the idea that contentment, more than the fleeting highs of happiness, leads to a more sustainable sense of well-being. Studies show that people who practice gratitude, mindfulness, and acceptance of the present moment tend to experience higher levels of life satisfaction. A study from the University of California found that practicing gratitude daily can increase overall well-being by up to 25%. Another study, published in The Journal of Positive Psychology, found that people who focus on their immediate experience rather than future desires report greater life satisfaction and emotional well-being. These findings reinforce the idea that contentment isn’t about settling for less, but about recognizing the abundance in the present moment. Three Reflection Questions What do I have right now in my life—relationships, experiences, opportunities—that I am grateful for but may be taking for granted? How often do I find myself chasing after the next big achievement, and how does that impact my sense of fulfillment? What small changes can I make in my daily routine to cultivate contentment and appreciate the present moment? We are often taught to keep pushing forward, to measure our success by external milestones. But true well-being and happiness isn’t about reaching a destination—it’s about the journey.  Contentment is the practice of finding joy in the every day, of recognizing that we already have what we need to feel fulfilled. It’s about breaking free from the hedonic treadmill and discovering that the path to well-being is rooted in presence, gratitude, and acceptance. Let’s embrace the power of contentedness together. As you reflect on your own journey, remember that well-being is not something to chase, but something to cultivate—right here, right now. Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine Founder, Empower Possible Hiking, enjoying the Fall colors, and feeling content.  Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Contentment Is An Attitude Poet: Catherine Pulsifer Contentment is an attitude That many of us pass by Focusing on the things we've yet to get Rather than a smile we sigh! It's something that demands patience and joy For all of life has to giveWhen content we can enjoy even small gifts Making life here so much more to live. Let not discontentment find a space in your heart Fill it instead with gratefulness, and gratitude Rather than obsess over what could have been or will be, Be satisfied with what you have, adjust your attitude. Source:https://www.stresslesscountry.com/poemscontentment.html

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

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © EMPOWER Possible Northfield, MN 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.

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.