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.

Why Empathy Matters

 

March 17, 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!

Why Empathy Matters Dear Empowered Reader, In our fast-paced world, where technology often replaces human connection, the power of empathy has never been more crucial and it is a topic that has been on my mind a lot lately. As a well-being consultant and change management specialist, empathy is central to my role and I'm excited to share some insights on this transformative skill that can revolutionize our personal and professional lives. Why Empathy Matters Empathy is a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in both personal and professional relationships. It allows us to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering deeper connections and creating a more supportive environment. In the workplace, empathy enhances communication, strengthens working relationships, and boosts creative thinking. It helps build trust, resolve conflicts more effectively, and it promotes collaboration rather than confrontation. Moreover, empathy is essential for creating a positive and inclusive work culture. It helps reduce discrimination, drives diversity and inclusivity, and creates a sense of psychological safety where individuals feel comfortable sharing ideas openly. By practicing empathy, we not only improve our own emotional intelligence but also contribute to a more compassionate and understanding society. As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the ability to empathize with others becomes a vital skill for personal growth, professional success, and social harmony The Empathy Revolution Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, is the cornerstone of meaningful relationships and effective leadership. In my years as a well-being specialist, I witnessed firsthand how empathy could transform workplace dynamics and improve overall wellness. One particular instance stands out. During a challenging period of organizational change, I noticed a team struggling with low morale. By implementing empathy-focused workshops and encouraging open communication, we saw a remarkable shift. Not only did employee engagement improve, but our utilization of support services like ComPsych (the Employee Assistance Program) increased from non-existent to many members of the team utilizing this resource for support. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of empathy to create positive change. Empathy in Action As a change management specialist working with the State of Minnesota, I've learned that empathy is not just about feeling for others – it's about taking action. It's about "walking a mile in someone else's shoes" to truly understand their perspective. This approach has been invaluable in guiding executive leadership through complex change initiatives and improving project outcomes across Minnesota's human services system. Upcoming Empathy Workshop As I mentioned, this has been on my mind, and when something has been on my mind, I like to take action. In this case, it meant hosting a workshop!  I'm thrilled to announce our upcoming free 90-minute virtual Empathy Workshop. This interactive experience is designed for anyone interested in fostering connection, creativity, and kindness.  Together, we'll explore ways to shift from indifference to empathy, connect with like-minded leaders, and learn practical techniques to lead with more impact. Click HERE to Sign Up for the Workshop  Reflection Questions 1. When was the last time you truly put yourself in someone else's position? 2. How might increased empathy improve your personal and professional relationships? 3. What small act of empathy could you perform today?  Affirmation"I am open to understanding others. My empathy creates positive change in my world and beyond." Remember, dear reader, empathy is like a muscle – the more we use it, the stronger it becomes. By cultivating empathy, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. As psychiatrist Helen Riess notes, empathy is critical to our lives, helping us "to get along, work more effectively, and thrive as a society" Let's embark on this empathy revolution together.  Your journey towards greater understanding and connection starts now. Take care, dear reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine Founder,  Empower Possible Citations: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_the_world_needs_an_empathy_revolution https://www.phoenix.edu/content/dam/edu/research/doc/white-papers/workplace-diversity-inclusion/2024/082024-empathetic-leadership-goods-mccalla-langford.pdf Click here to Register for the Empathy Workshop Empathy: holding space Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Any Human to Another Countee Cullen The ills I sorrow at  Not me alone  Like an arrow,  Pierce to the marrow,  Through the fat  And past the bone.  Your grief and mine  Must intertwine  Like sea and river,  Be fused and mingle,  Diverse yet single,  Forever and ever.  Let no man be so proud  And confident,  To think he is allowed  A little tent  Pitched in a meadow  Of sun and shadow  All his little own.  Joy may be shy, unique,  Friendly to a few,  Sorrow may be scorned to speak  To any who  Were false or true.  Your every grief  Like a blade  Shining and unsheathed  Must strike me down.  Of bitter aloes wreathed,  My sorrow must be laid  On your head like a crown.  https://poemanalysis.com/countee-cullen/any-human-to-another/

Upcoming Events Empathy Workshop Saturday, March 22  9:00 AM - 10:30 AM CST Who: People interested in fostering connection, creativity, and kindness. What: A free, 90-minute virtual experience designed to address the need for more empathy in the modern world. Why: Shift from Indifference to Kindness Connect with Like-Minded Leaders Join us for an interactive, thought-provoking workshop filled with experiential learning, breakout discussions, and exercises to help you lead with more empathy and impact. To Register click on the link, SIGN ME UP! Julie Zaruba Fountaine and Linda Brandt appreciate Late Nite Art’s People Leader Series for teaching us this format. 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.

A Recap of My Costa Rican Adventure

 

March 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!

A Recap of My Costa Rican Adventure My husband and I on our last day in Costa Rica. Dear Empowered Reader, Life's journey often takes many unexpected twists and turns that can challenge us. As the founder of Empower Possible, I've learned that true empowerment comes from embracing life's challenges and finding beauty in both the extraordinary and the ordinary.  Today, I invite you to read this newsletter inspired by the landscapes and spirit of Costa Rica. Stephen Levine's words from "One Year to Live" came to mind as I wrote this newsletter: "We become more present the more present we become."  This quote encapsulates the essence of mindfulness and its transformative power. Becoming more present has taught me the importance of noticing. Sometimes this comes easily—like during my recent trip to Costa Rica with my husband. Other times, it's more challenging—like when we returned home to subzero temperatures and spent three days mostly cooped up inside.  Both experiences, though vastly different, were extraordinary in their own way A Recap of My Costa Rican Adventure Please note: I am not an expert on Costa Rican culture, and the insights shared below are based solely on my personal experiences. Nature is F’N Awesome! In Costa Rica, the awesomeness of nature is undeniable. Everywhere you look, life is overflowing—moss, flowers, vines, birds, monkeys, sloths, frogs, and insects all coexist.  As our guide, George put it during one of our tours of the rain forest, "Nature is F'N AWESOME!"  I couldn't agree more. This vibrancy serves as a powerful reminder of the life force that surrounds us, even in less tropical environments.  It encourages us to look closer at our surroundings and to notice the subtle signs of life and growth in our backyards.  Life Upon Life Upon Life:  Co-Evolution. The interconnectedness of nature in Costa Rica is awe-inspiring. On a single tree, you can find moss, air plants, and vines thriving together. Ants inhabit hollow trees while birds perch atop cattle to eat ticks.  This beautiful display of symbiosis reminds us of the importance of community and mutual support in our own lives. For example, red new growth on plants signals vitality and resilience. The holes in monstera leaves are adaptations to survive in dense forests. Bioluminescent moss and butterfly wings mimicking a snake's head illustrate nature's creativity in survival. These adaptations in nature can inspire us to find creative solutions to our own challenges. Just as the monstera leaf adapts to thrive in its environment, we too can adapt and grow in the face of adversity. Tico Time: No Need to Rush The Costa Rican concept of Pura Vida is more than a phrase; it's a way of life. It translates to "pure life" but encompasses so much more: gratitude, simplicity, and contentment.  In Costa Rica, even honking isn't an act of anger but a way to say hello, goodbye, or take care. The people there embrace life with a contagious appreciation. This mindset encourages us to slow down and savor life's moments. In our fast-paced world, adopting a Pura Vida attitude can help reduce stress and increase overall well-being.  Applying Costa Rican Wisdom to Our Lives 1. Embrace Nature's Rhythms:  Take time each day to connect with nature, even if it's just observing a houseplant or watching birds from your window. 2. Practice Mindful Observation:  Notice the small details in your environment. How does the light change throughout the day? What sounds can you hear when you really listen? 3. Cultivate Gratitude: I have said it more than once and I will say it again 😊Start a gratitude journal, noting three things you're thankful for each day. 4. Slow Down:  Incorporate "Tico Time" into your routine by scheduling buffer time between activities or dedicating a day to move at a leisurely pace. Say goodbye to back-to-back meetings and packed schedules. I make it a point to schedule my meetings to start 5 minutes after the half-hour or end 5 minutes before the end of the hour, creating a buffer of time in between meetings. 5. Foster Connections:  Just as nature thrives on interconnectedness, nurture your relationships with friends, family, and community. Much like the way ecosystems rely on strong bonds, I focus on nurturing my relationships with loved ones, friends, and my community. Whether it's a quick check-in with family or a deep conversation with a friend, I believe these connections help me grow and thrive. 6. Embrace Adaptability:  When faced with challenges, ask yourself, "How can I adapt and thrive in this situation?" instead of facing the situation with a sense of rigidity.  7. Simplify:  Evaluate your possessions and commitments. What can you let go of to live more simply? Affirmation, "I embrace the beauty of the present moment, finding joy in life's simplicity and connection" "I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear." - Rosa Parks This quote reminds us of the power of determination and clarity of purpose. When we align our actions with our values, like the Costa Rican expression, "Pura Vida", we can overcome fear and live more authentically. My trip to Costa Rica served as a powerful reminder of the beauty that exists when we slow down, notice, and embrace the present moment.  Nature's resilience, ability to regenerate, the simplicity of Pura Vida, and the joy of coexisting with others are lessons that transcend geography. These thoughts aren't just about Costa Rica—they're about how we choose to live every day. Remember, we have the power to regenerate our world by applying these lessons to our daily lives. By embracing presence, cultivating gratitude, and finding joy in simplicity, we can transform our experience of life and inspire those around us. Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope it inspires you to pause, notice, and celebrate the extraordinary in your own life. If this newsletter resonates with you, please share it with a friend or colleague.  Remember, at Empower Possible, we believe in your ability to create positive change in your life and the world around you.  Let's embrace the spirit of Pura Vida and regenerate our world, one mindful moment at a time Take Care, Dear Reader Julie A view along the Cano Negro River. Two spider monkeys. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. MOVING by Luis Chaves The world is turning so fast it appears to stand still. I thought about saying so but preferred, as your copilot, to watch you circle the parking lot. https://www.poetryinternational.com/en/poets-poems/poems/poem/103-27875_MOVING

A tucan resting in a tree outside our hotel in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. 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 Empowered Heart to Heart Podcast as it is relevant to this topic I chatted with Rhonda Simmons about personal mission statements, listening to your true voice, and claiming your power. To listen HERE  Interested in catching up on our previous podcast episodes? I 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 Empathy Workshop Saturday, March 22  9:00 AM - 10:30 AM CST Who: People interested in fostering connection, creativity, and kindness. What: A free, 90-minute virtual experience designed to address the need for more empathy in the modern world. Why: Shift from Indifference to Kindness Connect with Like-Minded Leaders Join us for an interactive, thought-provoking workshop filled with experiential learning, breakout discussions, and exercises to help you lead with more empathy and impact. To Register click on the link, SIGN ME UP! Julie Zaruba Fountaine and Linda Brandt appreciate Late Nite Art’s People Leader Series for teaching us this format. 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, Minnesota 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.