Nurture your mind and soul

 

February 20, 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!

Nurture Your Mind and Soul Dear Empower Possible Reader,, As we journey through the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to feel like we're constantly caught in a whirlwind, spinning faster than ever before. That is why I am revisiting the topic of mindfulness.  During these chaotic times, have you ever felt the need to hit the pause button and simply breathe? February is my birthday month and as I celebrate my birthday, I am also celebrating another milestone, this is the 50th Regenerate Your World newsletter! Thank you for your continued readership. I am honored to be able to be a part of your inbox  In this celebration, I invite you to join me in a moment of reflection, mindfulness, and gratitude. What is mindfulness? Mindfulness, according to Thich Nhat Hanh, is the art of being fully present in the current moment. It's a practice that offers us the profound gift of authenticity and joy in our lives. Mindfulness is different than meditation although we can utilize meditation to be mindful. While mindfulness might seem daunting at first, with patience and perseverance, its rewards become evident. My first introduction to mindfulness was through meditation. I remember the first time I tried meditation. I took a class in college called Suffering and Christian Healing. I felt the meditation practice didn’t go very well and I stayed away from meditation for several years have this experience. During my class in college, we would go to a small chapel on campus, lay on a woven mat, and listen to a guided meditation our Professor would read to us. Most of the time, as I lay on my mat I was trying not to fall asleep and did not understand the process of meditation.  After 50 minutes I got up off my mat feeling like I had just wasted my time doing nothing, I had so many other things I could be doing. It seemed like a waste.  I didn’t know, that “doing nothing” and “just being” is the point. I am glad I had this experience because I know now how important it is to be patient and when teaching others there are many points to share that will help explain the process of meditation.  Jumping right into a guided meditation without direction isn’t very helpful.  When I teach others about meditation I often share this experience because I always felt meditation is just natural and I should be able to meditate easily. Meditation is far from easy for me however I can adjust a few things in my meditation practice that make it easier. For example,  it is important to know meditation involves the breath, non-judgment, and releasing attachment to any particular outcome. Remembering to breathe and letting go of judgment helps me to stay in the present moment. While I still struggle with meditating for long periods I continue the practice because I have seen the benefits in my life when I incorporate it in my day-to-day life. Meditation has helped me become less reactive to situations. I pause before I respond instead of jumping to conclusions and making assumptions. I also try to meditate in the same space and I make it easier by determining what time and location I need to be in. For example, I know I need to practice meditation in the morning so I am not as distracted and not too tired. I need to be in a quiet space and it helps if there is a blanket available to keep me warm. I also always need to remind myself to breathe and relax my jaw and lower my shoulders. Once I get set up it is much easier for me to meditate for a few minutes.  Have you ever tried to meditate?  If so, what works for you?  How do take a moment to pause and “just be”? What types of meditation have you tried? For some, meditation or a mindfulness practice might involve finding a quiet space in the morning, while for others, it could mean incorporating loving-kindness meditation into moments of challenge or disappointment. The beauty lies in discovering what resonates with you and allowing yourself the grace to explore. In celebration of this milestone, I encourage you to incorporate a few acts of self-love and care into your day today. Whether it's a few moments of meditation, a walk in the woods, or simply savoring your favorite beverage, let's prioritize nurturing our well-being today and every day. There are many forms of meditation.  One that has been particularly helpful for me during difficult times with others and when I am feeling disappointed is a loving-kindness meditation. Want to get started right now? Practice a loving-kindness meditation my gift to you for your readership! To access your free loving-kindness meditation video, simply visit www.empowerpossible.com/p/loving-kindness-meditation-free-video. Together, let's embark on this journey of self-discovery, mindfulness, and gratitude. Here's to another 50 newsletters filled with inspiration, growth, and moments of serenity. With warmth and gratitude, Julie Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Mindful by Mary Oliver Every day I see or hear something that more or less kills me with delight, that leaves me  like a needle in the haystack of light. It was what I was born for  -to look, to listen,  to lose myself inside this soft world  -to instruct myself over and over in joy, and acclamation. Nor am I talking about the exceptional, the fearful, the dreadful, the very extravagant  -but of the ordinary, the common,  the very drab, the daily presentations. Oh, good scholar, I say to myself, how can you help but grow wise with such teachings  as these -the untrimmable light of the world,  the ocean's shine, the prayers that are  made out of grass?

In the Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs.  In this episode, on the podcast Not Just A Daydream with Kristi Winfree we covered a lot of topics including: * Recognizing and honoring the multidimensional aspects of your identity outside your job. * Seeing the impact of living in alignment with your core values. * Harnessing your personal power to shape the path to your future. To listen click here. 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 February 29, 2024, Care for the Caregiver, Leading Age Minnesota Institute and Expo I'm excited to share my passion for well-being at #Institute2024. Join me for a deep dive into Care for the Caregiver, and let's spark meaningful discussions together. Register now and join me there! https://www.leadingagemn.org/education-events/institute/ Spring 2024 Mountain 10 Workshop The Journey to Positive Change workshop 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 waypoints 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. This workshop will be limited to 10 people.  Please email info@empowerpossible.com to register.

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

A Fish Named Nebula

February 7, 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!

A Fish Named Nebula Dear Empowered Reader, Thank you for taking a few minutes of your day for a fish story!  What began as a simple wish for a pet evolved into a story of perseverance, creativity, and responsibility. A few weeks ago, I experienced a wonderful moment with my nieces that I believe holds meaningful teaching points for us all. It began with receiving a text from their mom, one of my sisters.  She shared that my nieces would like to set up a video chat. I never turn down an opportunity to talk with my nieces (ages range from 2 to 12). We set up a time to chat. I looked forward to the conversation as I never quite know what will develop during our video chats.  A few hours later I heard the ring of my video call, when I answered the call , all I can hear is “WE GOT A FISH!!” my nieces were so excited to tell me about their first pet. Now why am I sharing their excitement with you? It has to do with the events leading up to this moment. My nieces have wanted a pet for several years. First came conversations about adopting a dog, that was immediately vetoed by my sister and her husband. Then came conversations about adopting a cat, but that too was vetoed. Then my oldest niece asked for a fish, this was not immediately vetoed but received an “we’ll think about it” from my sister and brother-in-law. After a few more years of asking about the fish my oldest niece and one of her sisters developed a presentation about fish care and reasons why owning a fish would be good for them and their sisters. I saw the presentation myself and was convinced! However, my sister and her husband were unsure about taking on a fish's additional responsibility.  Next, my nieces began to demonstrate how responsible they could be by acting out certain scenarios that could occur when owning a fish. My sister and brother-in-law still said, “We will have to think about it”. Then my nieces had the idea to fundraise for a fish, asking their mother, if we can pay for it then can we get a fish” The same response came, “We will have to think about it”.  However, my nieces would not be detoured. They got creative and earned over $100 selling homemade cookies at a Bake/Craft Fair. Once they had the cash they approached my sister again, “Now can we get a fish?” once again they were told, “We will have to think about it”. Little did my nieces know that my sisters and I were buying all the supplies needed to get our nieces a fish.  A few weeks after the bake sale, my nieces received the good news, they were going to get a fish! Back to the video chat, my nieces were so excited to share they were going to get a fish, and not only that they were going to get two snails! In the end, due to their perseverance, they now have two fish and two snails as their first pets. Teaching Points: Perseverance and Resilience: My nieces demonstrated unwavering perseverance over several years. Despite initial rejections of the idea of adopting a pet, they persisted, adapting their approach and continually seeking ways to realize their dream. Creativity in Problem-Solving: In their pursuit, my nieces showcased creativity by developing a presentation on fish care, presenting reasons why owning a fish would benefit them. Additionally, their entrepreneurial spirit led them to successfully fundraise for their pet project through a Bake/Craft Fair. Responsibility and Teamwork: Through role-playing scenarios and fundraising efforts, my nieces showcased responsibility and teamwork. They took ownership of the potential challenges that come with pet ownership and worked together towards a common goal. Reflection Questions: What dreams or goals have you pursued with unwavering determination, and what lessons did you learn in the process? How can creativity play a role in overcoming obstacles and finding innovative solutions in your own life? Reflect on a situation where responsibility and teamwork were crucial. How did collaboration contribute to the success of the endeavor? As we navigate our paths, let's draw inspiration from the resilience, creativity, and responsibility demonstrated by my nieces. May their fish tale serve as a reminder that with determination and a creative spirit, we can overcome obstacles and create a fulfilling journey toward well-being. Have a "fish story" to share? I would love to hear it, email me at info@empowerpossible.com. Wishing you joy and inspiration, Julie Photo of one of the fish and snails! Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Mother To Son  By  Langston Hughes  Well, son, I'll tell you: Life for me ain't been no crystal stair. It's had tacks in it, And splinters, And boards torn up, And places with no carpet on the floor-Bare. But all the timeI'se been a-climbin' on, And reachin' landin's, And turnin' corners, And sometimes goin' in the dark Where there ain't been no light. So, boy, don't you turn back. Don't you set down on the steps. 'Cause you finds it's kinder hard. Don't you fall now-For I'se still goin', honey, I'se still climbin', And life for me ain't been no crystal stair.

In the Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my social media, I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs. In my latest guest appearance on the Marketing Rebels Podcast, we discussed freedom from the clock. Time Freedom: Work-Life Balance Myths Step into a world where time is not the enemy but your greatest ally! 🕰️ Join me on "Marketing Rebels: Breaking Business Barriers" with Shauna Van Mourik  In this episode, we unravel the mysteries of work-life harmony, liberate ourselves from the clock's constraints, and debunk the myths of time management. ⏳ Click HERE to join 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 February 29, 2024, Care for the Caregiver, Leading Age Minnesota Institute and Expo I'm excited to share my passion for well-being at #Institute2024. Join me for a deep dive into Care for the Caregiver, and let's spark meaningful discussions together. Register now and join me there! https://www.leadingagemn.org/education-events/institute/ Spring 2024 Mountain 10 Workshop The Journey to Positive Change workshop 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 waypoints 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 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. This workshop will be limited to 20 people. Please email info@empowerpossible.com to register.

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © Empower Possible, LLC. 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

End of Year Reflections

 

December 23, 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 bi-weekly basis. Let's Get Empowered!

End of Year Reflections Greetings Empowered Reader, As the year draws to a close, I have taken time to reflect on the remarkable journey we've had in 2023. Here's a look back on some of the empowering moments that defined my year, along with the invaluable lessons I’ve gleaned. This is an adaptation of the newsletter I send out to family members every year. 1. Travel to Oaxaca, Mexico: Lesson Learned: Cultural Immersion Fuels Creativity Our trip to Oaxaca taught my husband Chuck and me that embracing diverse cultures fosters creativity and innovation. The beauty of Oaxacan traditions left an indelible mark on our approach to problem-solving and ideation. So much so that we are going to Mexico City in 2024! 2. Celebrating Two Years of EMPOWER Possible, LLC: Lesson Learned: Persistence and Vision Yield Success The two-year milestone for EMPOWER Possible, LLC underscores the power of persistence and a clear vision. Each small step contributes to the larger journey of creating a meaningful impact. Thank you for joining me on this journey! 3. Lucky 13 Lesson Learned: Strong Foundations Sustain Success The celebration of Chuck and my 13th anniversary reminds us that the strength of personal and professional partnerships forms the bedrock of sustained success. 4. Ventures Across Boise, Colorado, and Santa Fe Lesson Learned: Broaden Horizons for Fresh Perspectives Our travels to Boise, Colorado, and Santa Fe reinforced the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones. Exposure to different environments sparks new ideas and perspectives, enriching our collective worldview. 5. My Two-Year Milestone at Essentia Health: Lesson Learned: Impactful Work Requires Commitment  The work of my colleagues and the dedication to Essentia Health for two years is a testament to the profound impact that commitment and passion can have on healthcare and community wellness. 6. Weathering the Snowstorm in Duluth: Lesson Learned: Resilience Amidst Adversity Duluth's record snowfall taught us that resilience is not just about enduring challenges but finding joy and camaraderie amidst adversity. I love the snow and 140 inches in one winter was a lot! I enjoyed skiing, snowshoeing, and shoveling snow. 7. Adjunct Top Moment: Lessons Learned:  There is potential for cross-pollination of ideas and methodologies between academia and our professional and entrepreneurial pursuits. My dual role as an adjunct professor at UMD and UMARY taught me how to maximize the synergy between academia and the mission at EMPOWER Possible, LLC. It was refreshing and energizing to be back in the classroom. 8.Gratitude Amidst Challenges: Lesson Learned: Community Support is Invaluable The health challenges with Chuck's father, Jim, faced emphasized the significance of community and support during difficult times. We are grateful for the strength found in shared experiences. 9. Staycations: Nurturing Connections at Home: Lesson Learned: Cherish the Moments of Connection Amidst global adventures, our staycations highlighted the importance of cherishing simple moments with loved ones. These moments are the threads that weave the fabric of our shared journey. Take a few moments now to reflect. Looking back on the year, what personal strengths did you discover or develop through various experiences, and how can you leverage them in the upcoming year? In what ways did you demonstrate adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges, and how can these experiences inform your approach to future uncertainties? Reflecting on your relationships with others, what moments of connection brought you joy or growth, and how can you prioritize and nurture these connections in the year ahead? As we bid farewell to 2023, I am deeply grateful for being part of the Empower Possible community.  Here's to a new year filled with continued growth, empowerment, and positive impact. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and New Year! Take care, dear reader,  Julie Photo Credit: Iwa Else.  Thanks Iwa for taking this photo of our snowshoes during a moon lit hike! Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. At The End Of The Year by John O’Donohue   As this year draws to its end, We give thanks for the gifts it brought And how they became inlaid within Where neither time nor tide can touch them. The days when the veil lifted And the soul could see delight; When a quiver caressed the heart In the sheer exuberance of being here. Surprises that came awake In forgotten corners of old fields Where expectation seemed to have quenched. The slow, brooding times When all was awkward And the wave in the mind Pierced every sore with salt. The darkened days that stopped The confidence of the dawn. Days when beloved faces shone brighter With light from beyond themselves; And from the granite of some secret sorrow A stream of buried tears loosened. We bless this year for all we learned, For all we loved and lost And for the quiet way it brought us Nearer to our invisible destination.

In the Media Join Melanie and I as we explore stress and burnout and some of the personal and professional issues that create it. Melanie and I both have had chronic stress and burnout and experienced toxic work environments and are passionate about helping organizations and individuals create effective plans to move from surviving to thriving . To listen click here. 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 1) December 2023, Career Reboot Summit, Navigating Career Crossroads Confidence Boost: Navigate career challenges confidently while aligning with your family’s needs. Renewed Enthusiasm: Rediscover joy and passion in your work, revitalizing your professional journey. Upgrade Your Job Search: Gain practical insights to enhance your job search and open doors to exciting opportunities. 2) February 29, 2024, Care for the Caregiver, Leading Age Minnesota Institute and Expo Email me, info@empowerpossible.com, with any questions you may have.

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