A Love Letter to Duluth

 

June 10, 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 Love Letter To Duluth Photo of me along the North Shore, Shovel Point, right outside Silver Bay. I loved taking friends and family to explore this spot along the North Shore. Dear Empowered Reader, Today, I want to share a love letter to a place that has shaped me in more ways than I can express. Duluth, Minnesota. I have lived in Duluth for 13 years. Over that time I have fallen in love with the people and the beauty of the city. As I have shared in previous newsletters, I very recently moved to a new city, Northfield Minnesota, Northfield is about three hours south of Duluth which means it was time for me to say, "goodbye for now" to Duluth. As I thought about how to say "goodbye" to a place that has become a home for my husband and me, I thought it would be appropriate to write about my appreciation and reflect on what Duluth has taught me. In Duluth, I became who I am today. It was here, along the shore of Lake Superior and the pine trees, that I discovered my own resilience and inner strength. Every change of the season reminded me that change is ever present in my life. When things are good it will change, which is a good reminder to be thankful, and when there are challenges it will change, which is a good reminder that tough times don't last. The beauty of Duluth wasn't just a backdrop for the good times; it was there during times of grief. I learned how to take time in nature to process the loss of life, dreams, and friends.  The weather in Duluth is uncontrollable and affects the daily lives of all who live there. It was a daily reminder to let go. In letting go of what no longer served me, I found freedom and growth. Duluth taught me the art of release, showing me that sometimes, surrendering to the flow of life is the most courageous choice we can make. I learned the ability to set boundaries and that "clear is kind". Duluth also taught me the power of awe and gratitude. Whether it was a breathtaking icescape across the lake or the enjoyment of a quiet walk along the shore, I learned to cherish the small moments of joy that make life truly meaningful. I found one of the most wonderful moments of gratitude comes after going out for a winter cross-country ski. In preparing to go skiing, I learned to bring a hot mug of tea with me keeping it warm in a thermos. The first sip of tea after being in the cold is one of the most wonderful feelings. It is a reminder that even the smallest act can make a big difference. As you may have already noticed, nature became my greatest mentor in Duluth, teaching me valuable lessons about resilience, patience, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Through every season, from the fall colors to the snowfall of winter, I discovered the wisdom that lies in the natural world. Chatting with friends during a hike, the reward of a warm cup of tea after a ski, working hard to paddle back into shore after drifting into the Lake, these are all memories I will take with me. In Duluth, I found a new beginning, new connections, and a new way to view the world. As I shared my journey on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, and in this newsletter, I found a supportive community of women who lifted me up and inspired me to keep growing. As I reflect on the woman I've become, I'm filled with gratitude for the role Duluth has played in shaping me. From the wide-eyed curiosity, I felt when my husband and I first moved in 2011 to the sense of belonging I feel today in 2024, this city has been a source of inspiration and renewal. So here's to Duluth—for all the ways it made me who I am today. May its beauty continue to nourish all who live and come to visit, empowering them to embrace their true selves and live their most authentic lives. As I say not “goodbye” but “see you later” I will always treasure the memories made. This was taken at about 5:30 am on a June morning, it was a wonderful Lake Superior Sunrise.  Winters last a long time in Duluth. I learned how to embrace winter and now I love to ski, snowshoe and even walk on the ice that has crashed into the shores of Lake Superior as seen in this photo. Time to do some reflection of your own! 1. How has nature played a role in shaping your personal growth and resilience?    Reflect on moments in nature that have impacted you deeply, whether it's a peaceful walk in the woods or the sight of a sunset.  How have these experiences helped you navigate challenges and find strength within yourself? 2. In what ways have you embraced the practice of letting go and surrendering to the flow of life?    Think about instances where you've had to release control and trust in the process of life unfolding.  How has this practice of letting go led to personal growth and transformation? 3. What aspects of your journey do you feel grateful for?    Take a moment to appreciate the lessons learned and the growth experienced along the way.  How have your experiences—both joyful and challenging—contributed to the person you are today?* Duluth is famous for its historic lighthouse, it marks the entrance into the Canal Park area of Duluth. My husband and I enjoyed many walks along Canal Park with views of the lighthouse. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Duluth  by  Trampled by Turtles Duluth Lyrics I can't love you baby Like you need me to You'll give up on me I'll give up on you In the lines and the shadows Where my fear resides I can't go out that door It's so warm inside We can lie like sinners Breathe the air like children And you could lead and I could follow All those times are gone Still I like the quiet Of Duluth in the winter In the sacred bond There's no place like home

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 hTh 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? 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 © 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.

Change Is Inevitable

 

May 28, 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! Change is Inevitable Dear Empowered Reader, Change is inevitable, How we navigate through it defines our journey.  I mentioned in my last newsletter I have a big change coming up. Now it the time to make the announcement public. I am moving to a new city!  My husband accepted a new job in Northfield, MN and in June we are going to move.  We have lived in Duluth for 13 years, it has been a good home. We have met lifelong friends, I have had two jobs and many volunteer roles, and my husband has flourished in his role at the University of MN Duluth. However, with the recent changes in the health of a family member it is time to move to be closer to them. We are also ready for a new adventure! What transitions do you have in your life?  Are you changing jobs, leaving a job, starting a new relationship, sending a child off to college, moving to a new city, or something else?  I dive into the topic, on the GingerBiz Podcast,  Listen to the full episode here, https://lnkd.in/gvigadgA The conversation reminded me of Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher, who is quoted as saying “Change is the only constant in life.”  We all have, will, or currently are experiencing change.  As we begin to reflect on whatever change or transformation is or has happened/ is happening for us, let's draw inspiration from the courage within ourselves.  As Mary Anne Radmacher states, "Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow.'" I love this quote, if you are trying you are showing courage. Hard Earned Personal Reflections: Embracing the Unknown:  When I decided to pursue a career change last year (and as I prepare to move to a new city!), I was filled with uncertainty and apprehension. However, instead of letting fear paralyze me, I embraced the unknown with an open heart. I discovered that stepping out of my comfort zone not only broadened my horizons but also allowed me to tap into my strengths and talents. Finding Harmony Amidst Change: Transitioning to a new job brought about a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and everything in between. My morning and evening routines became even more important than usual. I enjoy taking walks outside, practicing yoga, chatting with friends, and brewing a cup of tea throughout the day. Finding a few moments of calm is crucial in maintaining harmony during times of change. The Power of Community: Throughout my journey of change, I've been fortunate to have a supportive network of friends, mentors, family, and colleagues by my side. Their encouragement and guidance have been invaluable, reminding me that I'm never alone in navigating life's transitions. Building and nurturing meaningful connections not only enriches our personal and professional lives but also provides a source of strength during challenging times. Well-being Tips: Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself during periods of change. Acknowledge any fears or uncertainties you may be experiencing, and remind yourself that it's okay to feel vulnerable. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding you would offer to a close friend (thank you to Dr. Neff for this advice.) Stay Grounded with Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to stay grounded amidst change. Whether it's through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking moments to pause and reflect, mindfulness can help you cultivate inner peace and resilience. Reach Out for Support: Don't hesitate to lean on your support system during times of transition. Whether you need a listening ear, practical advice, or a shoulder to lean on, reaching out to friends, family, or professional mentors can provide valuable support and perspective. Don't worry about being "a burden", most people feel honored to be asked for support. In the spirit of embracing change, I would like to take a moment to reflect as reflection is a key aspect of navigating any journey as it gives you time to pause and respond. Here are three reflection questions to guide you on your journey: How have moments of quiet courage shaped your professional journey? What fears or doubts are holding you back from embracing change in your career or personal life? In what way can you cultivate resilience and determination to navigate through transitions more effectively? Remember, change is not a barrier; it's an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Let's embrace it together, supporting and empowering each other along the way. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, it's a shared experience that we navigate together,  check out the free Navigating Change Workbook for helpful tips and share with a friend!  Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie The house in Duluth, MN, that I am saying goodbye to next month. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Quote from  Mary Anne Radmacher Speak quietly to yourself and promise there will be better days.  Whisper gently to yourself and provide assurance that you really are extending your best effort.  Console your bruised and tender spirit with reminders of many other successes. Offer comfort in practical and tangible ways - as if you were encouraging your dearest friend.  Recognize that on certain days the greatest grace is that the day is over and you get to close your eyes. Tomorrow comes more brightly. In the Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Thank you to Katy Murray from the GingerBiz podcast for the insightful conversation! Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of redefining your career goals? Take a listen to the podcast as we dive deep into strategies for setting clear objectives, staying focused, and pivoting effectively during times of transition.During the conversation, Katy and I discover strategies for navigating transitions with confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset. From redefining goals to honing skills and networking effectively, this episode offers a direction for transforming challenges into triumphs when navigating career changes. Listen to the full episode, https://lnkd.in/gvigadgA 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 © EMPOWERPossible Duluth, 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.  Edit preferences or Unsubscribe

How to Embrace Change

May 12, 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!

Embrace Change and Creativity, One Brushstroke at a Time Dear Empowered Reader, As we navigate our lives, we often find unexpected sources of inspiration and growth.  Today, I want to share a personal story about my recent experience with painting my bathroom and the reflections it sparked on my journey to well-being.  Personal Story: Like many of you, with the warmer weather, I embarked on a few home improvement projects during the past few months. I am preparing for a big move, (more on that to come!). With a paintbrush, a bucket of paint, and a goal in mind, I set out to transform my very green bathroom into a blank slate for potential new homeowners.  As I began to paint with my new white paint color I couldn’t help but imagine what was to come for myself and the new homeowners. What started as a simple painting project, evolved into a time to reflect.  While I was painting, I found myself with a lot of time to think. Each layer of paint became a metaphor for layers of self-awareness. Below are some of my reflections: Color and Emotions:  The process of selecting colors for my bathroom painting project prompted me to explore the connection between color and emotion. As I surrounded myself with white I noticed a shift in my mood and energy levels. The color of white ended up seeming very harsh so I needed to transition to a new color.  I settled on beige. With the new beige color, I realized this will set up the future homeowners for having a warm and bright space.  Through this experience, I gained a deeper appreciation for the impact of color on my well-being and the importance of creating spaces that evoke positive emotions. It made me think about the colors I will choose in my new home and the mood I want to invoke. Daily Routine and Creativity:  Painting my bathroom offered a chance to express my creativity, allowing me to channel my thoughts and emotions into tangible forms of art. I am someone who doesn’t paint daily even though I wasn’t painting a landscape or portrait it still felt like an act of creativity to me.  Despite the temporary disruptions to my schedule, I found joy in the process of recreating the space and noticed the impact on my well-being. Alignment with Vision: As I stepped back to review the final result of my bathroom painting project, I couldn't help but notice the change that occurred. While the result may not have perfectly matched my initial vision, it exceeded my expectations. Through this experience, I learned to embrace the beauty of imperfection and appreciate the effort I put into the project. Acceptance of Imperfection:  Despite careful planning and attention to detail, my bathroom painting project didn't turn out exactly as expected. The paint color appeared brighter than anticipated, and the application was uneven, leading to peeling in some areas. Initially, I felt disappointed by these imperfections, but I soon realized I did my best and appreciated the lessons I learned.  Through this experience, I learned the importance of embracing imperfection as a natural part of the creative process and finding beauty in unexpected outcomes. In sharing my story and reflections with you, I hope to inspire moments of introspection and connection within our community via the newsletter, social media, coaching, and coursework. Whether you're embarking on a home improvement project or navigating life's twists and turns, remember that every experience holds the potential for growth and self-discovery. Reflection Questions: Exploring Color and Emotions:  Reflect on a time when you surrounded yourself with a particular color, how did the color impact your mood and energy levels? How might you intentionally use color to create environments that evoke positive emotions in your daily life? Finding Creativity in Routine: Consider an activity or task in your daily routine that you perceive as mundane or repetitive. How could you infuse creativity into this activity to make it more enjoyable or meaningful? What small changes could you implement to transform routine tasks into opportunities for creative expression? Embracing Imperfection:  Think about a recent project when the outcome didn't align perfectly with your initial vision. How did you initially react to any imperfections or unexpected outcomes? How can you cultivate a mindset of acceptance and appreciation for the beauty of imperfection in your creative pursuits and life experiences? Lastly, have you undergone a similar journey of transformation recently? I invite you to share your stories and reflections with our online community. LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/julie-zaruba-fountaine Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Empower-Possible-LLC Instagram: www.instagram.com/empowerpossible/ Let's continue to learn from each other's experiences and inspire positive change in our lives. If you are going through a transition check out my course: Career Crossroads https://empowerpossible.com/elementor-2431/  Through this online course, you will learn how to leverage your past employment experiences as a foundation for growth, uncover and celebrate your unique gifts and talents, allow yourself the necessary time and space to grieve and let go, and ultimately, chart a new and exciting future for yourself. Wishing you moments of inspiration and growth. Take care, dear reader, Julie P.S. Happy Mother's Day to all mothers and maternal figures who enrich our lives in countless ways. Whether you're a biological mother, a mentor, a guardian, or someone who nurtures and supports others, your impact is immeasurable.  Your love, guidance, and care shape the world in a profound way. Thank you for all that you do. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Storyteller  by Liz Lochhead she sat down at the scoured table in the swept kitchen beside the dresser with its cracked delft. And every last crumb of daylight was salted away. No one could say the stories were useless for as the tongue lacked five or forty fingers stitched corn was grated from the husk patchwork was pieced or the darning was done. Never the one to slander her shiftless. Daily sloven or spotless no matter whether Dishwater or tasty was her soup. To tell the stories was her work. It was like spinning, gathering thin air to the singlest strongest thread.  Night in she’d have us waiting,  held breath, for the ending we knew by heart. And at first light  as the women stirred themselves to build the fire  as the peasant’s feet felt for clogs  as thin grey washed over flat fields the stories dissolved in the whorl of the ear but they hung themselves upside down in the sleeping heads of the children till they flew again in the storytellers night

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 Ry Duong's YouTube Channel as it is relevant to this topic. During our conversation, we talked about the definition of happiness as the feeling you have when you are living up to your full potential. Happiness is not a destination, it is a journey. It is not about being happy all the time but making the best out of life circumstances and keeping your head high while you tackle life’s challenges. Focus on what you have control over and utilize your strengths, talents, and social network to help you through the temporary bumps.  One step you can take to increase your level of happiness is to become more optimistic. How you look at the world matters. You can become more optimistic by practicing gratitude, journaling about positive experiences, spending time in nature, and practicing self-care by setting boundaries and practicing loving-kindness.  This is a feel-good episode and full of golden nuggets, it will leave you feeling more optimistic and inspired so you can and you will overcome whatever challenge that has been put 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 © EMPOWERPossible Duluth,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