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.

Insider Insights: Celebrating Three Years

 

October 16, 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!

Insider Insights: Celebrating Three Years Three-year celebration! Happy birthday Empower Possible! Dear Empowered Reader, I can hardly believe it—it’s been three years since I took the leap and launched Empower Possible! What started as a dream fueled by my own experiences of burnout turned into a passion for helping people find harmony in their hectic lives and blossomed into something more meaningful than I could have imagined. Today, I’m reflecting on how much we’ve grown together, and I feel overwhelming gratitude for this incredible journey. When I first started Empower Possible, it was just me, an idea, and much hope. I had a vision, but I wasn’t sure how it would unfold. Those early days were filled with excitement and, yes, plenty of uncertainty. I wondered if anyone would join me on this mission to build a life where wellness wasn’t just a goal, but a daily practice. And then, slowly but surely, you did. We began planting seeds of change together, and now here we are—a community that has turned wellness into something real, practical, and transformative. I’ll never forget the first workshop I hosted. I was nervous, hoping it would resonate with the attendees, but I quickly realized that this wasn’t just about me teaching—it was about us learning from each other. Each one of you has shared something that’s impacted me deeply—your stories, your challenges, your moments of growth. They’ve become the foundation of Empower Possible, reminding me every day why I started this in the first place. Let me share one pivotal moment with you. It was about six months after launching Empower Possible, and I was feeling a sense of burnout creeping in again. Yes, even after all my efforts to create harmony, I realized I wasn’t following the advice I was giving. My calendar was overbooked, and I had little time for personal regeneration. One weekend, I decided to take a solo hike in the woods—a place I’ve always gone to recharge. I left my phone in the car and immersed myself in nature. As I walked, I reflected on what truly mattered to me and made a promise to myself: I would not lose sight of the well-being practices I had worked so hard to instill. That hike became a turning point, reminding me that regeneration is not a one-time event but a continuous practice that requires attention and intention. It was a lesson that shaped how I lead Empower Possible and serve this community today. I’d love for you to take a moment and reflect on your journey. Think back to three years ago—where were you in your well-being journey compared to today? What have you discovered about yourself, your habits, or your mindset that has helped you grow? And most importantly, how can you continue to prioritize your own well-being as you move forward into the next chapter of your life? For me, these three years have reinforced one powerful truth: transformation is never easy, but it is always worth it. Every step forward, no matter how small, gets us closer to a life that feels aligned with who we truly are. There were moments when I wasn’t sure I was moving in the right direction—moments when doubt crept in—but every time, this community reminded me of the importance of persistence and the beauty of progress. Another experience that profoundly shaped my approach to well-being came just last year. I was in the middle of preparing for a big keynote speech, and, once again, I found myself stretched thin. I decided to plan a small day retreat with a couple of friends.  I was hesitant to take time away however I knew how important it is to rest and recharge. During that day away, I had the chance to unplug, take a long walk in the woods, and just "be". It wasn’t until I slowed down that I realized how much I had been running on empty. That experience reminded me of the power of rest and reflection, and how essential they are for regeneration. It’s a lesson I now incorporate into every facet of my life and work—recognizing that regeneration comes from giving ourselves space to breathe, reflect, and recharge. Without it, we cannot sustain our well-being. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from you is that we never have to walk this path alone. I’ve seen firsthand how the connections we’ve built here are the cornerstone of personal growth. Each of you has shown me the incredible strength that comes from having a village—a support system that celebrates our wins, picks us up after setbacks, and reminds us of our power. Speaking of power, I want to share a quote about power: “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker. This hits home because it’s the core of what Empower Possible is all about—helping you remember that you already have the power to shape your life, your well-being, and your future. The small, daily choices you make? They add up, and they are so much more impactful than we often realize. Don’t underestimate the power of those little steps—they can lead to life-changing transformations. As I look ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come. I have new programs and opportunities on the horizon—whether it’s diving deeper into our Mountain 10 workshops, new podcast guest appearances, or continuing to connect through these newsletters.  There’s so much more we can accomplish together, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being part of this community. Empower Possible wouldn’t be what it is without each of you. Here’s to many more years of growth, empowerment, and well-being! With heartfelt gratitude,   Julie Zaruba Fountaine   Founder, Empower Possible Screen capture of a brainstorming activity I completed as I was dreaming of what Empower Possible could be. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Still I Rise by Maya Angelou You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise. Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? ’Cause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room. Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I’ll rise. Did you want to see me broken? Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops, Weakened by my soulful cries? Does my haughtiness offend you? Don’t you take it awful hard ’Cause I laugh like I’ve got gold mines Diggin’ in my own backyard. You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise. Does my sexiness upset you? Does it come as a surprise That I dance like I’ve got diamonds At the meeting of my thighs? Out of the huts of history’s shame I rise Up from a past that’s rooted in pain I rise I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide, Welling and swelling I bear in the tide. Leaving behind nights of terror and fear I rise Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear I rise Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise I rise I rise. From And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou. Copyright © 1978 by Maya Angelou.

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © EMPOWERPossible 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

Navigating the Holidays with Compassion and Understanding

 

December 4, 2023 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 weekly basis. Let's Get Empowered!

Navigating the Holidays with Compassion and Understanding Dear Empowered Reader, As we are in the middle of the holiday season many of us find it is typically filled with joy and togetherness, I wanted to share a touching story that underscores the significance of compassion, understanding, and community during this time as it may not be as joyful as it seems. Meet Greg, he is a neighbor of mine, he lives across the street from me. I am not the most mechanically inclined nor do I know much about home maintenance. This has often led to very humbling experiences. Greg is the kind of neighbor who is always there to lend a helping hand. From the time I needed help learning how to secure my 10-foot kayak to my very small car or the time my car got stuck in a snowbank in front of my house.  Greg has always been there to assist me. Throughout the years, I have had the privilege of conversing with Greg about his journey. His story serves as a poignant reminder that the holiday experience varies for each person. A few years ago, Greg faced several profound losses casting a shadow over the approaching festivities. The holiday season, once a source of joy, now serves as a painful reminder of the void left behind. Navigating through the sea of holiday greetings has become an emotional challenge. During this time he shared with me that he is, "counting down the days until it is all over".  In the spirit of Empower Possible, let's unite as a community to support Greg and others who may be facing similar struggles during this time. As empowered people, our collective strength has the power to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us. Here are a few simple ways we can spread love and kindness: Reach Out: A heartfelt message, a phone call, or a handwritten note can convey the depth of your care. Inclusive Gatherings: Consider organizing gatherings that cater to various emotional needs. Creating spaces for connection beyond traditional celebrations can make a significant difference. Acts of Kindness: Small gestures, such as assisting with errands or offering a listening ear, can foster a sense of community and support. As we embark on this holiday season, let's make it a time of healing, understanding, and unity. Together, we can empower each other and create a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. To take this idea a step further, consider these questions: How can I foster inclusivity in my holiday celebrations to accommodate diverse emotions? What small acts of kindness can I incorporate into my daily life to uplift those around me? In what ways can I create a sense of community and support for those who may be facing challenges this holiday season? Wishing you a season filled with love, compassion, and shared joy. Take care, dear reader, Julie Founder,  Empower Possible Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Now by Chas. R. Skinner  If you have kind words to say, Say them now. Tomorrow may not come your way Do a kindness while you may, Loved ones will not always stay; Say them now. If you have a smile to show, Show it now. Make hearts happy, roses grow, Let the friends around you know, The love you have before they go, Show it now.

In the Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs. This week I am going to throw back to the Monday Positivitea with Parul Podcast as it is relevant to this topic This time of year it always seems there is not enough time. 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/

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