Showing posts with label joy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label joy. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

The Power of Contentment: Finding Joy in the Present

 

 

May 28, 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 Power of Contentment: 

Finding Joy in the Present

Brighton Beach in Duluth, MN. A place of contentment.

Dear Empowered Reader,


It’s easy to find ourselves chasing happiness-always reaching for the next milestone, the next achievement, or the next “perfect” moment. 

This month, let’s pause to explore a quieter, more sustainable companion on our journey: contentment.


Contentment vs. Happiness:

What’s the Difference? Happiness is often seen as a fleeting, high-energy emotion-sparked by external events like promotions, new relationships, or exciting experiences. It’s wonderful, but it’s also temporary. Contentment, on the other hand, is a steady, internal state-a sense of peace and acceptance with life as it is, right now. Unlike happiness, contentment doesn’t require external validation or perfect circumstances. It’s about embracing the fullness of our human experience, accepting both the joyful and the challenging moments.


Contentment is the underlying acceptance of what it means to be human, an unconditional love for all of life’s experiences, without the need for anything more than what is here right now.”


Recent research shows that contentment is a unique positive emotion, distinct from happiness or joy. Content people tend to be calmer, more present, and less driven by the urge to acquire more. They’re also more self-accepting and satisfied with life overall.


Have you ever noticed how quickly the thrill of a new success fades, replaced by the urge to chase the next goal? This is the “hedonic treadmill” in action. Psychologists describe it as our tendency to return to a baseline level of happiness, no matter what happens-good or bad. We adapt to new circumstances, and the emotional high wears off, prompting us to seek out new sources of pleasure or achievement.


While this adaptation helps us survive life’s ups and downs, it can also trap us in a cycle of “never enough.” Fortunately, research suggests that our well-being isn’t entirely fixed. With intention and practice, we can shift our set point and cultivate greater contentment in daily life.


Contentment doesn’t mean settling or giving up on growth. It means appreciating what’s here, even as we strive for more. Here are some ways to practice:


Take time each day to reflect on your abundance-relationships, skills, and simple pleasures. Gratitude journaling is a powerful tool.


Invest in meaningful activities and connections rather than material possessions. Shared experiences and learning new skills bring lasting satisfaction.


Rest, nourish your body, and make space for creative hobbies. These practices replenish your energy and foster a sense of fulfillment.


Try a brief daily meditation or simply pause to savor a cup of tea. Mindfulness grounds us in the present, where contentment lives.


Volunteer, join a club, or reach out to a friend. Supporting others and building connections enhances our sense of meaning and belonging.


When I began my first role as a wellness coordinator, I felt intense pressure to make sweeping changes. Remembering the philosophy of Kaizen-continuous, incremental improvement started with a five-minute daily meditation. Over time, this simple habit helped me to respond instead of react to situations and stay in a non-judgement. It reminded me that contentment is built one small step at a time, not in grand leaps.


Recently, after a long week, I joined a friend for a walk instead of tackling my endless to-do list. We laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the spring air. I realized that these moments-simple, unplanned, shared-bring a deep sense of contentment that no achievement or purchase could replace.


Reflection Questions

What aspects of your life bring you genuine contentment?


How can you shift your focus from pursuing happiness to appreciating the present?


What small changes can you make to increase your daily contentment?


Affirmation “I find joy and fulfillment in the present moment.”


EMPOWER Possible Connection: 

The “E” in EMPOWER stands for Engage with yourself, your community, and your present reality. Practicing contentment is an act of engagement: it asks us to show up fully, to notice the richness of our lives, and to participate in each moment without waiting for “perfect” conditions. By engaging with what is, rather than what could be, we build resilience, foster connection, and unlock our capacity for joy and fulfillment.


Let’s continue to support one another in this journey-sharing our stories, celebrating our progress, and practicing the art of contentment together.

What’s one small way you’ll cultivate contentment this week? Reply and share your story! info@empowerpossible.com


Take care, dear reader,


Julie Zaruba Fountaine

Founder, Empower Possible

 

I feel a sense of contentment while sipping my morning coffee and overlooking the pond in our backyard. 

 
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Contentment Is An Attitude by

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

Contentment is an attitude
That many of us pass by
Focusing on the things we've yet to get
Rather than a smile we sigh!

It's something that demands patience and joy
For all of life has to give
When content we can enjoy even small gifts
Making life here so much more to live.

Let not discontentment find a space in your heart
Fill it instead with gratefulness, and gratitude
Rather than obsess over what could have been or will be,
Be satisfied with what you have, adjust your attitude.

 
 

Kind Words 

A special thanks to one of the Mountain 10 workshop participants for sharing a few kind words about her experience.

In The Media

Where can you find EMPOWER Possible?

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


If you’re looking for inspiration on how to create meaningful change in your life or organization, I encourage you to read my recent interview with Voyage Minnesota. In this conversation, I share my journey from experiencing burnout to founding Empower Possible, a wellness and change management organization dedicated to helping others find harmony and purpose in their busy lives. You’ll discover practical insights on integrating well-being into everyday routines, the importance of aligning values with measurable outcomes, and how small, intentional changes can lead to significant transformation. The interview also highlights the power of community and persistence in overcoming challenges and building something impactful. Take a few moments to check it out-you might find the encouragement or spark you need to take your next step toward lasting well-being and growth.

Voyage Minnesota article.

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!

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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.

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!

 
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.

 

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!

pinterestlinkedinwebsite_linkfacebookinstagram

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.

The Power of Contentment: Finding Joy in the Present

    May 28, 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...