Unlock Your Full Potential

 

April 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!

Unlock Your Full Potential Be bold enough to dream and brave enough to try. Dear Reader,   Welcome to this edition of Regenerate Your World! Today, we’re exploring "Unlocking Your Full Potential" by adopting a regenerative perspective—a mindset rooted in interconnectedness, adaptability, and the belief that challenges can fuel growth and renewal.   What Is a Regenerative Perspective?  Having a regenerative perspective means you view challenges and opportunities as part of a larger, interconnected system. Inspired by principles from nature, it emphasizes adaptability, resilience, and the ability to restore and enhance systems—whether they are personal, social, or ecological. Unlike fixed or linear thinking, a regenerative approach allows us to co-evolve with our circumstances, creating outcomes that benefit both ourselves and the world around us.   How Perspective Impacts Your Life   Your perspective shapes how you approach life’s obstacles and opportunities. Embracing a regenerative perspective can transform setbacks into stepping stones for renewal. Consider these examples: The Gardener Consider a beginning gardener (that's me!) who plants their first vegetable garden. When pests destroy their initial crop, instead of giving up, they view it as a chance to learn about natural pest control methods. They research companion planting and introduce beneficial insects, creating a more robust and sustainable garden ecosystem. This setback becomes a stepping stone towards developing a thriving, regenerative garden that produces abundant harvests year after year. The Entrepreneur's Pivot A small business owner launches a brick-and-mortar store just before a global pandemic hits. Rather than seeing this as a catastrophe, they adapt by creating an online presence and developing a local delivery service. This pivot not only saves their business but also expands their customer base beyond their local area. The initial setback becomes a catalyst for innovation and growth, leading to a more resilient and adaptable business model. The Athlete's Comeback An aspiring athlete suffers a severe injury that threatens to end their career. Instead of giving up, they approach their recovery as an opportunity to strengthen other aspects of their performance. They focus on mental training, nutrition, and developing new techniques. When they return to competition, they find they're more well-rounded and mentally tough than before. The injury, once seen as a setback, becomes the foundation for a stronger, more successful athletic career. The Student's Second Chance A high school student fails an important exam, jeopardizing their college aspirations. Rather than accepting defeat, they use this as motivation to overhaul their study habits. They seek help from teachers, join study groups, and develop better time management skills. Not only do they improve their grades, but they also discover a passion for helping other struggling students. This initial failure becomes the catalyst for personal growth and a future career in education. These stories demonstrate how adopting a regenerative perspective allows individuals to thrive by embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and renewal.  By reframing setbacks as stepping stones, we can cultivate resilience, innovation, and personal growth in various aspects of our lives. Exercises to Cultivate a Regenerative Perspective Here are practical ways to develop this adaptable and interconnected mindset:   1. Systems Mapping: Reflect on how different areas of your life—work, relationships, health—are interconnected. Identify one small change in one area that could positively impact others.   2. Nature-Inspired Reflection: Spend time in nature observing how ecosystems adapt and regenerate over time. Journal about lessons you can apply to your own life challenges.   3. Question Your Setbacks: When faced with setbacks, ask yourself: “What can I learn from this experience? How can I use it to create something better?”   Reflection Questions   Take a moment to reflect on these prompts:   - In what areas of your life do you feel disconnected or stuck in rigid thinking?   - How has your perspective influenced your achievements or setbacks?   - What’s one belief about yourself you’d like to reframe through a regenerative lens?   Affirmation "I embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow." Repeat this affirmation daily to anchor yourself in renewal and adaptability.   In the EMPOWER framework, the "M" stands for "Meaning." A regenerative perspective aligns perfectly with this principle by encouraging us to find deeper meaning in our challenges and successes. By viewing life through an interconnected lens, we empower ourselves to create outcomes that not only benefit us but also contribute positively to the systems we are part of—whether they are personal relationships, communities, or workplaces.   When I started Empower Possible, I often felt overwhelmed by the complexity of building something meaningful from scratch. By adopting a regenerative perspective—seeing each challenge as an opportunity to adapt and improve—I discovered new ways to connect with my purpose while creating value for others.  Please feel free to share your Regenerative perspective! I love hearing from you. Thank you for joining me on this journey toward unlocking your full potential through a regenerative perspective.  Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine   Founder of Empower Possible This photo was taken as I celebrated the First anniversary of Empower Possible. It has taken a lot of Regenerative practices to get me here and I am so glad to say Empower Possible is turning Four this October! Thank you for being with me on this journey! Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. See It Through by Edward Guest When you’re up against a trouble,     Meet it squarely, face to face; Lift your chin and set your shoulders,     Plant your feet and take a brace. When it’s vain to try to dodge it,     Do the best that you can do; You may fail, but you may conquer,     See it through! Black may be the clouds about you     And your future may seem grim, But don’t let your nerve desert you;     Keep yourself in fighting trim. If the worst is bound to happen,     Spite of all that you can do, Running from it will not save you,     See it through! Even hope may seem but futile,     When with troubles you’re beset, But remember you are facing     Just what other men have met. You may fail, but fall still fighting;     Don’t give up, whate’er you do; Eyes front, head high to the finish.     See it through!

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 © EMPOWERPossible 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.  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.

Unlocking the Power of Mindful Collaboration

 

April 2, 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!

Unlocking the Power of Mindful Collaboration Rachel Gilbertson and her book, "Aligned Enchantment" at the New Station while recording an interview for "The Lift". Dear Empowered Reader, Welcome to this week's Regenerate Your World Newsletter! As we explore the transformative power of teamwork and collaboration, I'm reminded of a meaningful connection that has spanned over a decade. It was during my time working in higher education that I first met Rachel Gilbertson. Our paths crossed as we both navigated the challenging landscape of academia, each driven by a passion for fostering growth and well-being. Little did I know that our initial meeting would be the beginning of a long-standing connection, one that would evolve into a shared mission to inspire others through the practice of mindful awareness. Fast forward to today, I'm thrilled to share with you Rachel's inspiring work on the Art of Presence. Her approach emphasizes the importance of aligning intention, attention, attitude, action, and impact to create a more mindful and present life. Recently, I had the opportunity to watch a video featuring Rachel, where she beautifully articulates the five elements of mindful awareness. These principles not only apply to our personal lives but can significantly enhance our collaborative efforts at work. Rachel's journey is a testament to the power of living with purpose and making a positive impact each day. She has dedicated her career to supporting whole-person and collective well-being, earning an undergraduate degree in Community Health Education and a Masters of Education focusing on Integrative Therapies and Healing Practices, along with certifications in health coaching and mindfulness facilitation. Her work in public health, particularly in maternal and child health, reflects her commitment to creating a more compassionate and connected world. Her work in public health, particularly in maternal and child health, reflects her commitment to creating a more compassionate and connected world. The Art of Presence  Rachel's approach reminds us being present and mindful in our interactions. This can transform our team and personal dynamics. By setting clear intentions, paying attention to our family, friends, and colleagues, maintaining a positive attitude, taking purposeful action, and considering our impact, we can create a more harmonious and productive home and work environment. Learn more by watching Rachel's latest interview https://www.wdio.com/lift-online/practicing-the-art-of-presence/ Reflection on Collaboration As we consider Rachel's insights, let's take a moment to reflect on our own collaborative experiences: 1. How can you bring more intentional presence to your next team meeting? 2. In what ways can you better attend to your colleagues' needs and perspectives? 3. How might a shift in your attitude impact your team's overall dynamic? "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." - Helen Keller This quote from Helen Keller reminds us of the incredible potential that lies in collaboration. When we come together, combining our unique strengths and perspectives, we can achieve far more than we ever could individually. Affirmation for Collaboration "Our teamwork transforms ideas into actions, and together, we create positive change in our world." Repeat this affirmation daily to reinforce the power of collaboration in your professional life. Exciting Partnership on the Horizon Speaking of collaboration and teamwork, I'm thrilled to hint at an upcoming collaboration between the Art of Presence and Empower Possible. Stay tuned for more details on how this partnership will bring you even more tools and insights for personal and professional growth! Remember, true collaboration starts with being present and open to the contributions of others. By practicing the art of presence in our teamwork, we can create a more empowering and fulfilling work experience for everyone involved. Take care, dear reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine Founder, Empower Possible Rachel's book Aligned Enchantment is available now! Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Check out the practices on the Art of Presence webpage for a Gratitude Infused Body Scan and New Year's Reflection Guide:https://www.artofpresence.org/practices Clearing by  Martha Postlethwaite  An exerpt from  Aligned Enchantment. Do not try to save the whole world or do anything grandiose Instead, create a clearing in the dense forest of your life and wait there patiently, until the song that is your life falls into your own cupped hands and you recognize and greet it. Only then will you know how to give yourself to this world so worthy of rescue.

In The Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs. Check out my chat with Parul. Monday Positivitea with Parul Want Freedom From The Clock? Check out this episode about Balancing Self-Discipline, Soul Purpose, and Self-Love for True Freedom Check out the episode linked HERE to learn tips about finding work-life harmony, setting boundaries, and gaining freedom from the clock! Interested in catching up on our previous podcast episodes? We invite you to explore our library of past recordings, where we delve into a diverse range of topics related to happiness and well-being. https://empowerpossible.com/podcasts/

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.

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