Celebration of Milestones

 

August 4, 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!

Celebration of Milestones The moving truck at our house in Northfield. This year we moved from Duluth to Northfield, which marked the end of one phase of life and the celebration of a new one. Dear Empowered Reader, As we reach the eighth month of the year I find myself reflecting on the profound importance of celebration. For me, this year, more than ever, has been marked by many milestones, 40th and 50th birthday celebrations, several anniversaries, new roles, a few goodbyes, and transformative experiences. These moments, whether personal or professional, are not just markers of time but are opportunities to pause, reflect, and honor the journey. In my roles as a change manager, well-being specialist and through my personal experience I have learned about the importance of celebration. One of the steps in Change Management processes is to plan celebrations for small and big milestones.  Celebration is a regenerative act. It replenishes our energy, deepens our sense of belonging, and reminds us of our capacity for joy. According to Chip and Dan Heath, authors of The Power of Moments, celebrations are “defining moments”—experiences that elevate our spirits, deepen our connections, and create lasting memories. These moments give shape to our lives, transforming ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Dan Heath’s research on “bright spots” highlights the importance of celebration. Our brains are naturally wired to focus on problems, what’s broken, what’s missing, what needs fixing. However, when we intentionally seek out and celebrate what’s working, those bright spots, we shift our perspective from one of scarcity to one of abundance. This practice not only boosts our motivation and resilience but also inspires those around us to believe in the possibility of positive change. “Celebrations are the punctuation marks of our lives. They give us permission to pause, reflect, and savor the journey.”  Chip & Dan Heath For example, with the celebration of a milestone birthday, I wanted to make space for reflection and building connections. One of my favorite ways to reflect is through the Mountain 10 process. I decided to lead a couple of Mountain 10 retreats in order to slow down, to listen deeply, build community, and refect on what do I want right now. The Mountain 10 retreat was not just a pause from routine, but a celebration of being present, alive, and open to possibility. Another milestone that stands out for me this year is approaching my first anniversary as Change Manager/Planning Director. Stepping into this role was both exciting and nerve-racking. The responsibilities were significant: developing and implementing change management strategies for an entire State agency, supporting communication efforts, assessing change impact, and guiding teams through transitions. When I felt unsure, I reminded myself about the heart of the role. It is about topics I study and implement every day, which are helping individuals and teams navigate uncertainty, build resilience, and embrace new ways of working. The first few months were a whirlwind of learning, listening, and adapting. There were moments when the path forward seemed unclear. Yet, as I reflect on this milestone, I am struck by the bright spots, the small victories that often go unnoticed. I remember the first time a team member shared how our new communication plan made them feel more included and valued. I recall the collective relief when a challenging project reached a successful conclusion, thanks to the dedication and collaboration of so many. To celebrate this milestone, I organized a virtual gathering with my team. Instead of focusing solely on outcomes, we shared stories of growth, resilience, and the ways we had supported one another. We named our bright spots, acknowledged challenges, and expressed gratitude for the journey. That celebration reinforced for me that milestones are not just about personal achievement, but about the communities we build and the lives we touch along the way. Celebration is not a distraction from the work of regeneration; it is essential to it. By pausing to honor our milestones, we create space for reflection, gratitude, and renewed purpose. Dan Heath’s concept of “bright spots” is especially relevant: by shining a light on what’s working, we foster a culture of possibility and hope. Celebrating milestones, whether personal or professional, helps us build confidence, foster connection, and inspire others to believe in their potential. In the world of well-being and change, this is especially true. My role is to guide people through transitions, to help them see not just the challenges but the opportunities for growth and renewal. Celebrating progress, no matter how incremental, builds momentum and resilience. It reminds us that every step forward is worth honoring. An Affirmation for This Season I honor every milestone, large or small, as a testament to my growth, regeneration, and capacity for joy. I celebrate my journey and the bright spots that light my path. Reflection Questions What milestone, personal or professional, are you most proud of this year, and how did you choose to celebrate it? (If you have not celebrated, how will you? ) Where have you noticed “bright spots” in your life or work that deserve acknowledgment and celebration? How can you create more intentional moments of celebration for yourself and those around you in the months ahead?  Ideas include: Plan a celebration meal with a friend or family member Visit your favorite shop or place in the city you live in Review your journal for moments of joy and savor them Take a personal day  Create a celebration playlist Closing Thoughts As we move through this milestone-rich year, I encourage you to pause and celebrate, not just the big achievements, but the small victories, the acts of courage, and the moments of connection. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or the quiet accomplishment of a personal goal, each milestone is a reminder of your capacity to regenerate, to grow, and to inspire others. Let’s continue to multiply our bright spots, honor our journeys, and celebrate the milestones together.  Do you have a celebration you want to recognize? Please share! info@empowerpossible.com With gratitude and celebration,  Julie Zaruba Fountaine  Founder, Empower Possible My husband and I celebrating his milestone birthday. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Scan the QR Code to sign up to be notified when the next Mountain 10 workshop is offered.  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. Threads of Love, Author Unknown Cascading whispers in the night, Embraced by memories, shining bright. Love's gentle echo through the years, Binds us together, sharing joys and tears. Reverberating stories, our hearts entwined, A legacy of love, forever defined. Tales told in laughter, in every embrace, In the fabric of family, we find our place. Onward we carry this cherished refrain, Nestled in hearts, through joy and through pain.

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, 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.

Regenerate Your Workday: A New Approach to Leadership

 

June 9, 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!

Regenerate Your Workday Last summer I stood in awe of the trees found in Olympic National Park. Dear Empowered Reader, If you’ve ever felt stifled by workplace routines or wondered how to create more meaningful connections in your professional life, today’s topic is for you. The Regenerate Your World community cares deeply about personal growth, collective well-being, and building environments where everyone can thrive. That’s why reimagining our Organization—the “O” in our E.M.P.O.W.E.R. framework—is so vital. The way we structure and nurture our workplaces directly impacts how we engage, find meaning, connect as people, and ultimately regenerate ourselves and our communities. When we transform organizations from rigid hierarchies into vibrant ecosystems, we create fertile ground for well-being, empathy, and collective growth. This shift has the power to regenerate not only our workplaces but also our sense of purpose and belonging. Today, we’re diving into a transformative approach to organizational structure—one that not only boosts workplace wellness but also elevates personal well-being. Let’s explore how shifting from a rigid hierarchy to a nurturing ecosystem can change everything, with fresh real-life stories to inspire your journey. Traditional organizations often resemble pyramids: leaders at the top, managers squeezed in the middle, and employees supporting the weight at the base. This structure can stifle innovation, create bottlenecks, and leave many feeling disconnected. But imagine your organization as a tree: Leaves (Employees): Absorbing sunlight and energy, thriving when given resources and recognition Branches (Managers):  Supporting and connecting, providing structure and nourishment Roots (Executives): Anchoring the organization, drawing in vital resources and distributing them throughout This living, breathing model fosters growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging at every level—perfectly embodying the “Organization” pillar of E.M.P.O.W.E.R., where the structure itself supports engagement, meaning, and well-being. When I served as a wellness officer at a regional healthcare system, I noticed that many employees felt isolated in their wellness journeys, especially those working night shifts or in high-stress departments.  My colleagues and I didn't wait for our leaders to act instead, we piloted a “Care Champion” initiative. We invited staff from various departments to volunteer as care champions—serving as supportive “branches” who could connect colleagues (“leaves”) to resources, organize walking groups, and gather feedback on their needs. We (the “root”) provided training, resources, and regular check-ins to ensure champions felt confident and supported. Within months, the program blossomed. Employees reported feeling more connected, and participation in wellness activities increased. The initiative empowered individuals at every level and created a grassroots network of support, embodying the tree structure’s collaborative spirit and the regenerative power of a well-organized ecosystem. Benefits of the Tree Structure Empowerment:  Every employee feels vital, like leaves are essential for growth. Collaboration:  Managers support and connect, rather than compete. Purpose:  Everyone understands their unique role in the organization’s health. This is the essence of Organization in E.M.P.O.W.E.R.—creating systems that nourish people and foster collective flourishing. Affirmation “I am an essential part of a thriving ecosystem, nourished by those around me and contributing to our collective growth.” Reflection Questions How does your current work environment resemble a pyramid or a tree? In what ways could adopting a “tree mindset” improve your work satisfaction? What unique strengths do you bring to your organizational “ecosystem”? Action Steps For Leaders (Roots): Reassess how you distribute resources and support. Communicate the vital role each employee plays. Create channels for “nutrients” (information, resources) to flow freely. Implement forums or growth circles to hear directly from employees. For Managers (Branches): Focus on supporting and nurturing your team. Collaborate with other departments to strengthen your network. Regularly check in with your team’s needs. Encourage open dialogue about wellness and work-life balance. For Staff Members (Leaves): Recognize your essential role in the organization’s success. Seek out and use available resources. Share your insights and experiences—your perspective matters! Participate in wellness initiatives and give feedback. Closing Thoughts By embracing the tree-like structure and fostering open communication, we regenerate not only our organizations but also ourselves. Every role is crucial in this living ecosystem. Your wellness and growth fuel the organization’s vitality. The journey from top-down control to community-driven collaboration has taught me the power of empathy, listening, and shared responsibility. Whether you’re a root, branch, or leaf, you have the power to regenerate your world—one connection at a time. Special thanks to Orbiting the Giant Hairball by Gordon MacKenzie for inspiring this post. Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Founder of Empower Possible Walking amongst the trees. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. WHEN I AM AMONG THE TREES by Mary Oliver When I am among the trees, especially the willows and the honey locust equally the beech, the oaks and the pines, they give off such hints of gladness. I would almost say that they save me, and daily. I am so distant from the hope of myself, in which I have goodness, and discernment, and never hurry through the world but walk slowly, and bow often. Around me the trees stir in their leaves and call out, “Stay awhile.” The light flows from their branches. And they call again, “It’s simple,” they say, “and you too have come into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled with light, and to shine.

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

Kind Words from a Mountain 10 Participant A special thanks to a client for sharing a few kind words about their Mountain 10 experience. In The Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs.  Purpose isn't something we find, but something we build." Reflecting on my journey with @boldjourneymag. I realized how much my connection to nature and holistic well-being shapes my work. What's one thing that fuels your sense of purpose? A Bold Journey  Click the link below to read the full interview. https://boldjourney.com/meet-julie-zaruba-fountaine/

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.