Empowering Change Questions

 

June 23, 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!

Empowering Change Questions Hello Empowered Reader, As a change manager and well-being specialist, I know that when change isn’t just about shifting strategies or structures, it’s about nurturing ourselves and others.  Recently, I was inspired by Michael Bungay Stanier’s “Five Big Juicy Change Questions” (TheChangeSignal.com, May 22, 2025), and I want to share my own take on these insights, tailored for the Regenerate Your World community. The topic of massive organizational change has been on my mind not just because it is my full-time job to lead organizational change efforts, but because of a recent decision at my organization.  When the conversation about returning to the office began in my organization, I felt a swirl of emotions—anticipation, uncertainty, and a deep sense of responsibility for my team’s well-being. The decision to Return to the Office was made without input from me or other leaders. However, we are responsible for implementing the decision. Many on my team, including myself, had grown to appreciate the flexibility and balance that remote work offered. The prospect of change brought both hope, frustration, and hesitation. I remember one particular team meeting where resistance surfaced. Concerns about commutes, family routines, and the loss of quiet focus time bubbled up. Instead of dismissing these worries, I chose to listen deeply. I asked, “What is the treasure you’re protecting?” For some, it was time with children; for others, it was their mental health. Together, we focused on co-creating a plan with flexibility while still adhering to the mandates. We are in the beginning stages of this transition, and by having the conversation, I am already noticing a shift among my colleagues. This experience reminded me that authentic change isn’t about enforcing new rules—it’s about honoring what matters most to people and empowering them to thrive. Now this example relates to my professional life; however, substitute friends and family for colleagues, and we face similar circumstances in our personal lives as well. The Five Change Questions: 1. Are You Creating or Changing? (Inspired by David Lancefield) Words matter. When we talk about “change,” it can trigger anxiety or resistance. But what if we used the language of “creation”? Many in our Empowered Regenerative community are natural creators of ideas, communities, and possibilities. Framing our work as “creating” something new invites collaboration and curiosity, rather than fear. Reflection Question: How might you reframe your next initiative as an act of creation? Notice how it shifts the energy in your conversations. 2. What’s the Treasure Behind the Resistance? (Inspired by Dr. Liane Davey) Resistance isn’t always a barrier; it’s often a signal. When someone pushes back, ask yourself: What are they protecting? Maybe it’s a value, a relationship, or a sense of safety. Many of us often hold space for others’ concerns. Let’s honor the “treasures” our colleagues/friends/family members guard, and use that wisdom to guide more compassionate change. Reflection Question: Next time you face resistance, get curious: What is precious here? How can you honor and include it? 3. Are You Measuring the Vibe? (Inspired by Dr. Jason Fox) We love our checklists and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), but what about the “vibe”—the emotional pulse of our teams? Well-being thrives where there’s trust, joy, and connection. Let’s make space to notice and nurture the energy in our workplaces, not just the outcomes. Reflection Question: How does your team (family or friends) feel today? What’s the mood in the (virtual) room? What could you do to lift the collective spirit? 4. Where’s Your Leverage for Well-Being? (Inspired by Dan Heath) We can’t do everything at once. The magic happens when we focus on the small shifts that create big ripples, whether it’s a new wellness policy, a listening session, or a simple thank you. Many are skilled at finding those leverage points supporting change and well-being. Reflection Question: What’s one small action you could take this week to boost well-being in your sphere of influence? 5. Are You Naming Things Honestly? (Inspired by Margaret Heffernan) Let’s be real: Sugarcoating hard truths doesn’t serve us or our teams or our family and friends. Authenticity is the foundation of trust. Clear is kind. When we name challenges honestly, whether it’s a budget cut or a tough transition, we empower others to respond with resilience and creativity.  Reflection Question: Where could you be more transparent in your communication? How might honesty strengthen your relationships? Affirmation for Empowered Change I am a creator of positive change. I honor resistance as wisdom. I nurture the energy of my community. I focus my efforts where they matter most. I lead with honesty, courage, and compassion. Every day, I empower what is possible. Each of these questions is an invitation to lead with intention, to nurture well-being, and to create positive change.  Which one resonates most with you right now?  I’d love to hear your reflections and stories. Reply or connect with me at empowerpossible.com. Together, let’s keep empowering what’s possible. Take care, dear reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine Founder, Empower Possible This newsletter is inspired by Michael Bungay Stanier, “Five Big Juicy Change Questions,” TheChangeSignal.com, May 22, 2025. One of the perks of working remotely is choosing my office location. On this day, I worked under a canopy of trees on the campus of St. Olaf in Northfield, MN.  Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. The Change We Create We are the hands that shape the dawn, The hearts that hold the flame, We listen for the hidden song In every voice and name. We gather courage, soft and strong, To face what must be said, With honesty, we right the wrong, With hope, we forge ahead. We measure not just what is seen, But what is felt and shared— The laughter, love, and in-between, The moments when we cared. So let us lead with open eyes, With wisdom, grace, and might— For every change we realize Begins with inner light. I own a variety of Holstee's products, and I truly appreciate the thoughtfulness and craftsmanship that goes into each item. That's why I want to share my thoughts on their Calm Cards. These cards are designed for individuals recovering from burnout, parents managing family demands, and anyone looking to transform their relationship with difficult emotions and challenging experiences.  To learn more, go to, https://www.holstee.com/products/calm-cards?ref=empower *Note: I am a Holstee affiliate and I choose to endorse products that I genuinely care about!

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.

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.  Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. 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 Podcast. Take 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! 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.

Renewed You: Embracing Change with Intention

 

January 20, 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!

Embracing Change with Intention Utilizing a journal, like this one created by my friend, Rachel Gilbertson, is a helpful way to add a moment of reflection into your day. Dear Empowered Reader, I hope this letter finds you well and thriving as we journey through the early weeks of the new year.  I'm reaching out today to share a few thoughts on personal growth and intentional change – topics that are near and dear to my heart, and I hope, to yours as well. As I sit here, at the Northfield Library drafting this letter, I can't help but think about how far we've all come since this time last year. I'm curious – what personal growth are you most proud of?  Maybe you finally figured out that sourdough recipe rekindled an old friendship, or overcame your fear of public speaking.  For me, I am celebrating my commitment to establishing a consistent meditation practice. It's been a game-changer for my focus and ability to respond instead of react to situations throughout the day. Now, I know the word "change" can make some people bristle.  But here's the thing – approaching it intentionally can be the key to unlocking incredible growth in our lives. At Empower Possible, I am a big fan of the Intentional Change Theory, which offers a fantastic five-step framework: 1. Discover your ideal self (Who do you want to be when you grow up? It's never too late to decide!) 2. Discover your real self (Warts and all – we're all beautifully imperfect) 3. Create your learning agenda (Think of it as your personal growth curriculum) 4. Experiment with new habits (Life's a lab, and you're the mad scientist) 5. Get support (Because we all need a small village) I recently used this framework to boost my public speaking skills. I envisioned myself as a confident speaker, assessed my current abilities (improving my story telling skills), created a practice plan, tried out different techniques, and sought feedback from my colleagues (this was a test of my vulnerability but I did it and the feedback was incredibly helpful!).  The result? I feel more confident in my ability to tell stories and connect with my audience. When it comes to setting goals, I like to think of it as planning an adventure.  Here are some tips to make your goals more achievable and exciting: - Connect each goal to a "why"- what does completing this goal mean to you  - Break big goals into smaller, daily actions -Rome wasn't built in a day, but they were laying bricks every hour - Schedule "buffer time" for life's little surprises because let's face it, life loves to throw curveballs For instance, if your goal is to find a new full-time job, it can feel overwhelming at first. But by breaking it down into manageable steps—like updating your resume for 30 minutes each day, networking with one new person weekly, or dedicating time to research companies that align with your values—you’ll find that each small action brings you closer to that exciting new opportunity. I am a big believer in the power of small habits. It's like compound interest for your personal growth!  Here are some micro-habits you might consider: - Start each day with a moment of reflection. I like to ask myself, "What would it look like if I lived with a sense of purpose today? - Set aside 10 minutes for personal growth amid daily tasks. Even if it's reading an inspiring quote while brushing your teeth. - Give each day a sense of meaning. Today's purpose: Spread joy through smiling at someone or giving someone a genuine compliment.  I've found that starting my day with a quick gratitude journal has been a total game-changer. It's amazing how listing three things you're grateful for can turn even a seemingly average day into a special day. Now, I'd love for you to take a moment and ponder: 1. What small, daily habit can you start today to support your biggest goal? No habit is too small – even deciding to smile at yourself in the mirror counts! 2. How can you approach change more intentionally this year? Remember, baby steps are still steps! Your EMPOWER Framework As you embark on this exciting journey of intentional change, let the EMPOWER framework be your trusty compass: Explore your ideal self. Dream big – the sky's the limit!- Map out your current reality. Be honest, but kind to yourself. Plan your learning agenda. What skills will future-you thank you for?  Open yourself to new experiences. Say yes to adventure! Work on building new habits. Consistency is key. Enlist support from others. We're stronger together. Reflect and adjust regularly. Flexibility is your superpower. Remember, my friend, "I embrace change as an opportunity for growth and renewal." As we wrap up, I want you to know I am rooting for you. I believe in your potential to create change in your life and in the world around you. By applying these strategies and embracing intentional change, you're setting yourself up for a year of meaningful growth and achievement that would make even your future self do a happy dance. Let's regenerate our world, one small habit at a time. And remember, if you ever need a cheerleader or a listening ear, I'm just an email away. Here's to your empowered journey! With warmth and belief in you, Take care, dear reader, Julie P.S. Don't forget to celebrate your wins, no matter how small.  Did you drink an extra glass of water today? That deserves a high five! This hangs in my home office as a daily reminder to live a meaningful life. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. The Year by  Ella Wheeler Wilcox What can be said in New Year rhymes, That’s not been said a thousand times? The new years come, the old years go, We know we dream, we dream we know. We rise up laughing with the light, We lie down weeping with the night. We hug the world until it stings, We curse it then and sigh for wings. We live, we love, we woo, we wed, We wreathe our brides, we sheet our dead. We laugh, we weep, we hope, we fear, And that’s the burden of the year. Ella Wheeler Wilcox. "The Year." Family Friend Poems, https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/the-year-by-ella-wheeler-wilcox

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 Jessica Osborn for hosting me on your podcast in April. Below is the episode description.  Feeling the burden of non-stop hustle? We've all been there—caught in the to-dos, trying to keep the burnout at bay while chasing success the way we've been told you have to - working longer and harder than anyone else. Well, what if you DON'T have to do it that way?For every story of hard work and grind ... there's another story of reaching success by working LESS! Why do we seem to tune into the ones that tell you success is the result of sleeping very little and spending all your time chasing goals? Even if you take a moment to think about this - it makes no sense at all! You already know you're much more productive when you're energized and highly focused. That means your brains need sleep, rest and space. Short bursts of work where you can focus on the important things. So... it's time to talk boundaries, joy, and finding your stride in the rush of work-life challenges. By pressing play on this episode you'll discover: - Why we often find ourselves struggling to utter the simple word "no," and how it impacts our path to joyful success - What signs scream "it's time to move on" from your job and craft the role that truly aligns with you? - The absolute value of self-awareness in writing your own story of personal and professional triumph. - How can setting boundaries revolutionize the way you work, live, and maintain a sense of self? 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/

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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