Showing posts with label awakening; tools; well-being; reflection; podcast; resources;. Show all posts
Showing posts with label awakening; tools; well-being; reflection; podcast; resources;. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

The Joy of Lifelong Learning

 

 

May 13, 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!

The Joy of Lifelong Learning

Photo of an Empower Possible Online Class: Career Crossroads

Dear Empowered Readers,


As the world celebrates a new wave of high school and college graduates this month, I am reminded that learning does not end with a diploma. Instead, it is a lifelong adventure—one that brings joy, growth, and empowerment at every stage. At Empower Possible, I believe that learning is not just a phase, but a way of living that opens doors to new possibilities, deeper wisdom, and a more fulfilling life.


The Benefits of Continuous Learning

Continuous learning enables personal and professional growth. It helps us achieve our career goals, adapt to change, and stay relevant in an ever-evolving world. But its impact goes far beyond the workplace. 

Lifelong learning:

  • Expands our skills and knowledge, making us more adaptable and resourceful.

  • Boosts our confidence and morale, as we see ourselves grow and achieve new milestones.

  • Sparks creativity and innovation, allowing us to approach challenges with fresh perspectives.

  •  Helps us navigate setbacks and embrace change as an opportunity for growth.

  • Deepens our sense of purpose and fulfillment as we pursue passions and discover new interests.

As Malala Yousafzai said,

“One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world.”

Education is not just about acquiring information—it is about transforming ourselves and, in turn, the world around us.


Strategies for Incorporating Learning into Daily Life

You don’t need to enroll in a formal program or carve out hours each day to be a lifelong learner. Here are practical ways to weave learning into your everyday routine:

  • Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Identify what you want to learn and break it down into manageable steps. 


  • Leverage Microlearning: Embrace short, focused bursts of learning—like watching a 10-minute video, reading an article, or listening to a podcast during your commute. Check out Podcasts on the Empower Possible site.

  • Integrate Learning into Routine Activities: Turn daily moments—like cooking, exercising, or commuting—into opportunities to learn something new.

  • Use Technology: Take advantage of educational apps, online courses, and digital resources that fit your learning style and schedule.

  • Reflect and Apply: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on what you’ve learned and how you can apply it in real life. Teaching others is also a powerful way to reinforce your own learning.

  • Join Learning Communities: Engage in conversations, join groups, or participate in workshops to share knowledge and gain new perspectives.

  • Stay Curious: Cultivate a habit of asking questions, exploring new topics, and seeking out new experiences.

As Helen Keller once said,

“The highest result of education is tolerance.”

Learning opens our minds and hearts, helping us connect with others and the world in deeper, more meaningful ways.


Exploring Different Learning Styles and Methods

We all learn differently, and understanding your unique learning style can make the process more enjoyable and effective. According to the VARK model, there are four primary learning styles4:


Visual

Learns best through images, diagrams, and charts

Consider learning through: Flowcharts, mind maps, visual aids

Auditory

Prefers listening and speaking

Consider learning through: Lectures, discussions, podcasts

Reading/Writing

Absorbs information through reading and writing

Consider learning through: Books, articles, note-taking

Kinesthetic

Learns by doing and experiencing

Consider learning through: Hands-on activities, experiments


Most of us are a blend of these styles. Experiment with different methods to discover what resonates with you. For example, you might listen to an audiobook while walking (auditory/kinesthetic), or create a mind map to organize your thoughts (visual).


Personal Reflections: My Own Learning Journey

Let me share two personal examples of how lifelong learning has enriched my life:


1. Embracing Technology for Growth
 A few years ago, I realized that digital tools were rapidly transforming the way we work and connect. At first, I didn't know where to start. Then I took the methods I applied when gaining strength and cardio fitness and applied them to my mental/intellectual fitness.

When weight training, I start with the basics, low or no weight, and gradually increase the weight and add more dynamic movement. I decided to do the same with my learning plan. I learned one new app or platform each month. I started with simple tools like online scheduling apps and gradually moved to more complex ones like data visualization software. This not only boosted my confidence but also allowed me to serve my clients at Empower Possible more effectively. The process reminded me that learning is not about perfection, but about progress and curiosity.


2. Learning from the Community
 When I launched Empower Possible, I joined a network of women entrepreneurs. Through workshops, book clubs, and candid conversations, I learned invaluable lessons about leadership, resilience, and self-care. One of the most profound insights came from a fellow founder who said, “We rise by lifting others.” This community became a living classroom, teaching me that wisdom is often found in shared experiences and collective growth.


Reflection Questions for You

  • What new skill or topic are you curious about?

  • How has learning something new recently impacted your life?

  • What barriers prevent you from pursuing new knowledge?

    Take a moment to reflect on these questions. Write down your thoughts, and consider sharing them with a friend or mentor. Sometimes, the act of reflection itself is a powerful learning experience.

Affirmation

“I am a lifelong learner, always open to new ideas and experiences.”

Repeat this affirmation to yourself whenever you feel stuck or uncertain. Let it remind you that every day is an opportunity to grow, explore, and become more of who you are meant to be.


The “W” in EMPOWER: Well-being

At Empower Possible, the “W” in our EMPOWER framework stands for Well-being. Well-being is more than physical health it also includes intellectual health and goes beyond knowledge—it is the ability to apply what we learn with discernment, compassion, and purpose. Lifelong learning is the path to wisdom. It encourages us to:

  • Seek understanding, not just information.

  • Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

  • Share our knowledge to uplift others.

  • Reflect on our experiences and learn from them.

By nurturing wisdom, we empower ourselves and those around us to create positive change. Our workshops, coaching, and resources at www.empowerpossible.com are designed to support you on this journey, helping you unlock your potential and embrace the joy of lifelong learning.


Serious about learning? Want to chat about the options?

Click here to schedule a quick call.


Join the Movement: Learning for Life

Education is a lifelong gift as you celebrate the graduates in your life or reflect on your learning journey. Whether you are starting a new chapter, changing careers, or simply seeking to enrich your daily life, the pursuit of knowledge is always within reach.


Let’s make learning a joyful, integral part of our lives. Let’s support each other in our growth, share our wisdom, and create a world where everyone is empowered to learn, lead, and thrive.


Take Care, Dear Reader,


 Julie Zaruba Fountaine
 Founder, Empower Possible

 

Learning something new at the Duluth Folk School!

 
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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.

 

Through Books and Learning

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

When it comes to learning, a book has no bounds,
Learning helps us stand our ground.
Rather than say I don't know
In a book, solutions do show.

Through books and lessons, we do grow,
It helps us to understand the world we come to know.
With minds enlightened, better decisions pave the way;
Learning empowers so read a book every day.

 
 

Kind Words from a Coaching Client

A special thanks to one of my coaching clients for sharing a few kind words about her coaching experience.

In The Media

Where can you find EMPOWER Possible?

Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs. 

Thank you to The CEO Mindset for hosting me on your podcast. 


By pressing play on this episode, you'll discover:

  • The difference between goals and priorities
  • The relationship between unmet goals and your systems/processes
  • Common misconceptions about productivity
  • What running a 5K has to do with systems, goals, and changing your life

Click HERE to check out the podcast

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/ 

Connect with me on social media!

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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.

Monday, February 3, 2025

The Art of Reflection

 

February 3, 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!

The Art of Reflection

Pausing to watch a sunset invites me to reflect on the day.

Dear Empowered Reader,


In the last edition of The Regenerate Your World Newsletter, we discussed goal setting. This week we are going to continue the conversation.  January gets all the buzz for New Year resolutions however I believe every day is a chance for renewal…


As we step into a new year, it's time to reflect, reset, and regenerate our world. This issue of "Regenerate Your World" focuses on personal growth, intentional living, and the power of reflection.

 

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." - Alan Watts

 

The Art of Reflection

 

As a community committed to well-being and personal growth, we understand the importance of looking back to move forward. This year, consider reviewing your past 365 days and noting your wins and challenges across various life domains.

 

For instance, one of our community members shared their significant wins from the past year:

- Securing a new job that utilizes their skills

- Gaining clarity on personal values

- Supporting family through challenging times

 

They also faced challenges, such as:

- Maintaining emotional health while supporting others

- Setting boundaries with loved ones

 

Reflection Questions:

1. What were your top three wins and challenges in your professional life this year?

2. How did your energy levels fluctuate throughout the seasons, and how did this impact your work-life balance?

3. What unexpected lessons did you learn from a project or task that didn't go as planned?

 

Regenerating Your Approach

 

The concept of regeneration is about renewal and growth. As you plan for 2025, consider how you can regenerate different aspects of your life:

 

- Professional Growth: Seek new certifications or skills that align with your career goals. For example, one of our members is pursuing a Six Sigma certification to enhance their project management skills.


- Personal Development: Focus on mindfulness practices and letting go of what no longer serves you. A community member shared their intention to release anger and judgment, recognizing what they can and cannot control.


- Relationships: Nurture connections with family and friends through meaningful experiences. Consider planning trips with loved ones or hosting dinner parties that prioritize connection over perfection.

 

 "The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude." - Oprah Winfrey

 

Setting Intentions, Not Just Goals

 

Instead of rigid resolutions, consider setting intentions that allow for flexibility and growth. Embrace the concept of "the swerve" – make plans but remain open to changing direction as needed.

 

My personal approach to this is asking myself every morning these three questions:

- What will make me feel connected today?

- What will give me a sense of purpose?

- What would I do today if I were taking care of my human?

 

Empower Possible Affirmation:

"I embrace the pace of my journey and trust in my ability to adapt and thrive."

 

The Power of Three Words

 

Choose a three-word thesis to guide your decisions and actions in the coming year. For inspiration, consider: "Embrace the Pace".

 

A community member shared their three-word thesis: "Let Them Be". This mantra helps them release the need to control others' behavior and focus on their growth.

 

"Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change." - Jim Rohn

 

Thriving Without Goals

 

Remember that personal growth isn't always about achieving specific targets. Sometimes, it's about the small, consistent actions that contribute to our overall well-being:

 

- Acknowledge others' kindness

- Practice gratitude daily

- Learn something new, even if it scares you

- Take responsibility for your actions

- Ask for help when needed

 

One member shared their intention to "let go of striving for perfection" and instead focus on creating a welcoming environment when hosting friends and family.

 

As we regenerate our world in 2025, let's focus on renewal, intentional living, and embracing the journey of personal growth. By reflecting on our past, setting mindful intentions, and remaining open to change, we can create a year of meaningful progress and fulfillment.

 

Final Reflection Questions:

1. What is one area of your life that needs regeneration, and what small step can you take today towards that renewal?

2. How can you apply the concept of "embracing the pace" to a current challenge you're facing?

3. What is one boundary you need to set to protect your emotional well-being in the coming year?

 

Remember, as one of our members beautifully put it: "You're still awesome, still you, and still worthy of love, rest, success, and greatness." Let's make 2025 a year of growth, compassion, and regeneration.


Take care, dear reader,

Julie

Founder, Empower Possible


 

 

One way I keep my goals is mind is by creating a collage with photos and reminders. 

 
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Do Not Go Gently Into That Good Night

by Dylan Thomas

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

From The Poems of Dylan Thomas, published by New Directions. Copyright © 1952, 1953 Dylan Thomas. Copyright © 1937, 1945, 1955, 1962, 1966, 1967 the Trustees for the Copyrights of Dylan Thomas. Copyright © 1938, 1939, 1943, 1946, 1971 New Directions Publishing Corp. 

 

The time is now!  
Don’t wait another minute to make to change your life.  If you’ve been contemplating change, STOP! Start planning your strategy for achieving your goals, for doing something different, for living the life of your dreams.
I was a guest on the CEO PodcastTake a listen and you’ll hear about:
The difference between goals and priorities

The relationship between unmet goals and your systems/processes

Common misconceptions about productivity

What running a 5K has to do with systems, goals, and changing your life

Link to Podcast

 

Connect with me on social media!

pinterestlinkedinwebsite_linkfacebookinstagram

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.

The Joy of Lifelong Learning

    May 13, 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...