Embracing Change and Finding New Roots

 

December 24, 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!

Embracing Change and Finding New Roots The view from Thompson Hill, saying goodbye and see you later to Duluth. Dear Empowered Reader, If you’ve been following the Regenerate Your World Newsletter, you know that the past few months have brought significant changes for me—moving to a new city and starting a new chapter in my career. Just six months ago, my husband and I packed up our lives in Duluth, MN, and embarked on an unexpected journey to Northfield, MN. A year ago, I couldn’t have imagined leaving Duluth. The idea of leaving our friends, our outdoor lifestyle, and the comfort and familiarity of Duluth were hard to let go of. Yet, this leap of faith has brought opportunities, growth, and connections that I never anticipated—and for which I am deeply grateful. One of the most surprising blessings has been the professional opportunities that opened up after the move. Shortly after settling into Northfield, a friend forwarded me a job posting for a Change Management Coordinator and Planning Director role. Back in Duluth, the position would have been out of reach—literally and figuratively. The commute to St. Paul, over two hours away, would have made it impossible. But in Northfield, St. Paul is less than an hour’s drive, and suddenly, the position felt within reach. At first, I hesitated to apply. It was outside my comfort zone—a leap into the unknown. But taking that step has been transformative. This role has aligned with my passions, expanded my perspectives, and brought professional fulfillment I hadn’t expected. Reflecting on this decision, I’m reminded of John A. Shedd’s words: “A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” Leaving the safe harbor of Duluth allowed me to navigate new waters, full of both challenges and rewards. Moving closer to family has been another unexpected gift. I’ve cherished the precious moments spent with my father-in-law during his time in hospice—moments of connection and gratitude that I’ll carry with me forever. I’ve also had the chance to deepen relationships with my parents, three sisters, and close friends who now live just around the corner. These relationships have anchored me through this transition, filling my days with laughter, meaningful conversations, and small but significant moments I didn’t realize I had been missing. Still, there are things I miss about Duluth: the calming presence of Lake Superior, the friendly faces I’d see on every errand, and the comfort of a close-knit community. Change doesn’t erase the connections or memories of where we’ve been—it adds layers to our journey. Regular visits and phone calls with friends in Duluth remind me that while I’ve left the harbor, the anchor points of my past remain. Maya Angelou said it best: “You can’t really know where you are going until you know where you have been.” As I reflect on these past six months, the changing seasons have mirrored my own transition. The Winter Solstice, which marked the longest night of the year, is a time of reflection and renewal. It symbolizes leaving behind the light of what was familiar to embrace the unknown, only to find that the light returns—brighter and fuller than before. This season invites us to pause, acknowledge our growth, and welcome new beginnings with open hearts. Reflection Questions for You: What recent changes in your life have pushed you out of your comfort zone? How have you deepened connections with the people around you? Which aspects of your past do you cherish as you embrace the possibilities of the future? An Affirmation for You: I am resilient and open to change. I honor my past while embracing the possibilities of my future. In this season of transition, I am reminded of the importance of finding harmony—between the old and the new, the familiar and the unfamiliar, the challenging and the comforting. In the Art of Hosting practice, this harmony is captured by the two-loop model: for a new system to emerge, the old system must compost or transform. Like the Solstice, this season of change invites us all to seek harmony in the contrasts of life. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. May this season bring you peace, clarity, and renewal. Take Care Dear Reader, Julie View during a Winter Solstice Hike in Duluth, MN. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper  So the shortest day came, and the year died, And everywhere down the centuries of the snow-white world Came people singing, dancing, To drive the dark away. They lighted candles in the winter trees; They hung their homes with evergreen; They burned beseeching fires all night long To keep the year alive, And when the new year’s sunshine blazed awake They shouted, reveling. Through all the frosty ages you can hear them Echoing behind us—Listen!! All the long echoes sing the same delight, This shortest day, As promise wakens in the sleeping land: They carol, feast, give thanks, And dearly love their friends, And hope for peace. And so do we, here, now, This year and every year. Welcome Yule!

In the Media I'm thrilled to share my story as featured in Canvas Rebel. This opportunity allowed me to reflect on the why behind Empower Possible and the mission that drives me daily—to help individuals and organizations navigate wellness and change in achievable, authentic, and meaningful ways. In this interview, I share insights into: How my personal experiences shaped my approach to wellness and change management. Challenges I’ve overcome and the lessons learned along the way. The values and vision that guide the work I do through Empower Possible. For anyone seeking inspiration to step into their purpose or looking for ways to create harmony in their personal and professional lives, I hope my journey resonates with you and I would love to connect! To learn more about my story, check out the article published by Canvas Rebel.

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.

The Power of Bold Requests

 

December 9, 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!

The Power of Bold Requests Dear Empowered Reader, In this newsletter, I invited Linda Brandt—a passionate community builder and advocate for underrepresented voices—to share her story on the power of bold requests. We first met over a decade ago at a health promotion conference, where we discovered not only our shared habit of working on our feet but also our similar philosophies on leadership and community-building.   Linda has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive communities where connection and collaboration are key. Here, she takes us back to a life-changing moment in 2013, when an ambitious idea led her to an unexpected meeting with Sheryl Sandberg, then COO of Facebook and author of Lean In. Through Linda’s reflections, we see how the simple act of asking—even when it feels intimidating—can open doors to deeper relationships, ongoing mentorship, and new possibilities. Linda’s story encourages us to think about the people in our own lives who support our goals and how we can nurture these relationships by asking for the help we need, no matter how bold. As Linda demonstrates, our “genies” may be closer than we think, ready to grant our wishes if only we dare to ask. What follows is Linda's story. Sheryl and Linda at Fort Snelling Officer’s Club women’s restroom The Power of Bold Requests In the fall of 2013, after a series of twists and turns, I was stunned to learn that then Facebook COO and Lean In author Sheryl Sandberg was coming to my home to meet with my Lean In circle. What was once a wild idea I had thrown out while researching meeting locations was now going to happen. To give you a sense of the magnitude of this personal earthquake, I called no fewer than 100 people to share this news. I even stopped by a coffee shop to tell one friend in-person. One Lean In leader cried upon hearing the news. When I shared the news with my friend Alexis, he offered advice that has stayed with me. He said, “Meeting Sheryl is like meeting a genie. She can grant your wishes if she wants to, so you better have them ready.”  Holy cow. I could immediately tell that Alexis’ advice was solid and useful. It helped that I knew Alexis had taken big risks himself. That said, his advice was a lot for me to process. Like many people who join Lean In, I am often “leaning in to leaning in.” Knowing what I truly want to lean in to doesn’t come easily for me, especially when the stakes feel high. I know I am not alone in this. In my experience it’s harder to know and express your needs, much less your wants, when you have internalized low expectations and scarcity. Sheryl Sandberg calls this “the tyranny of low expectations.”  My initial reaction to Alexis’ advice was, “What could I possibly ask Sheryl for?” Building the Lean In Together MSP community was already a dream come true. Becoming a Lean In leader had already significantly expanded my world, including this opportunity to meet a woman I greatly admired. “Why would I ask for more? Shouldn’t that be enough?” When I look inside myself, I see that this difficulty in wanting more originates in old feelings of heartbreak. It was heartbreaking to grow up wondering if my basic needs were going to be met. It was also equally heartbreaking to know that there were people who had more than enough and yet ignored others’ unmet needs.*  All this to say,  Alexis’ counsel to “have my wishes ready” was a tall order. Talking to Sheryl required skills that were outside my comfort zone and my socialization as a female. Fortunately, I’ve learned to rely on trusted friends and advisors when I am outside my depth. One of those trusted people is Evelyn, a former house cleaner living in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Evelyn helped me realize that the best thing to ask a genie for is more wishes.  Sheryl at Linda’s home Asking for more wishes meant building an ongoing relationship with Sheryl. Thus, soon after her visit to my home, I started sending her updates on the Lean In Together Minneapolis - St. Paul Network. I continue to send those updates to this day, 11 years later. Coming up to the present day, in my latest update to Sheryl I let her know that I will be in the San Francisco Bay area, where she lives, for much of November and December. Sheryl emailed me back that she would love to see me. I was over the moon since this would be our first one-on-one meeting not associated with a Lean In Network leaders event. The joy I felt upon receiving Sheryl's message is captured in the watercolor I drew. Linda with one of her paintings. Before I lost my courage, I quickly responded to Sheryl’s invitation by asking, “Is it too bold to request a ‘walk and talk’ meeting?” I am now having my walk-and-talk with Sheryl on Monday, December 16. Will I have my wishes ready by then? Yes! Am I hoping she has wishes to ask of me as well? Of course. My main wish is still for more wishes. Ideally, this be the first of many walks as we continue to support each other in the years ahead. If you are wondering how this story might help you in your own life journey, I like how you think. My advice is to make a list of the people who want to support you in going after your dreams and goals. The people on this list are your genies. What bold requests might you make of them? What habits or structures could you put in place, or re-commit to, to keep your genies close in our fast-moving world? For example, might recurring calendar meetings help you stay in touch?  Watercolor Linda painted. Building relationships with the people who want to help you thrive is such a great way to invest in yourself. Specifically, I encourage you to find fun ways to support, appreciate and update the genies in your life. I suspect you find, like I have, that leaning into the discomfort and asking your genies for help will make your relationship even stronger.  Right from the start in 2013 we called our Network Lean In Together Minneapolis- St. Paul because we know going after your dreams and goals is way more fun with company. I’d love to hear from you. In particular, I’d love to hear what bold actions you are taking or considering taking. You can find me on LinkedIn or at lindabrandtmph@gmail.com * I am grateful to Jo Saunders for teaching me that greed has two elements: taking more than you need and being indifferent to the needs of others. I find this definition so useful that I dream of one day putting it on a billboard. As you just read Linda's story. I would like to share more about Linda.  Linda Brandt is a community builder who empowers underrepresented leaders. She’s passionate about fostering connection, collaboration, and innovation. She’s eager to share her experiences in creating inclusive and engaging communities. In her journey from a bold request to an enduring relationship with Sheryl Sandberg, Linda shows us that bold asks are not just about taking risks—they’re about honoring the people who want to see us thrive. By leaning into the discomfort of asking for what we truly need, Linda reminds us that we can build meaningful connections with our own “genies.” Reflecting on Linda’s story, I’m reminded of the importance of fostering strong, supportive relationships in both personal and professional spheres. Making these connections a priority is not always easy, but as Linda shows, it’s a worthwhile investment in our personal growth.  So take a moment to think about the bold requests you could make and the people who are willing to support you along the way.  Like Linda, you may find that asking for support and guidance opens doors you hadn’t imagined. Take care, dear reader, Julie Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Lean In by  Ana Maria Santuario When you are all alone in suffering, Lean into yourself. Know this too shall pass… And lean into it all. For it is by walking through the darkest of days, That you’re returned to the light within your own self. There is no other way to navigate a storm when you are its eye You must simply weather it, and pray for safe passage through. When you are alone, be alone, And know that this too shall pass. © Santuario, Ana Maria (2024). Mirror, Mirror, Collection 1. Faith in Change Publishing, London.

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, 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 Contentedness

 

November 25, 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!

The Power of Contentedness I am often most content in nature.  Dear Empowered Reader, As I took time to think about what to share for this edition of the newsletter the topic of happiness came to mind. Writing this newsletter at the end of November the topic of happiness is especially relevant as we enter the holiday season, a time often marked by high expectations and the pressure to feel happy and fulfilled.  For many, this period becomes a whirlwind of busyness and external demands, leaving little room for reflection or contentment. As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reassess our priorities, and focus on cultivating a sense of contentment rather than chasing fleeting moments of happiness. The goal of this newsletter is to invite you to step back from the hustle and reconnect with what truly matters, setting the stage for a more mindful and fulfilling close to the year. In a world that constantly tells us to "chase happiness" and "pursue more," it's easy to feel like we’re always falling short. But what if happiness, as it's often portrayed, isn’t the ultimate goal? What if the secret to a fulfilling life isn’t found in constant pursuit, but in learning to appreciate the present moment, to embrace the here and now? As we move through our careers and personal lives, it's time to redefine what success and well-being truly mean—and today, I want to explore the power of contentedness. "Contentment is natural wealth, luxury is artificial poverty." – Socrates This quote from Socrates reminds us that true wealth lies not in possessions or accomplishments, but in appreciating what we already have. Yes, there is truth that having your basic needs met is vital and I agree but what about once your needs are met? What then?  It's a radical shift from the message we often receive: that we must always strive for more—more success, more recognition, more happiness. But this endless chase can lead to dissatisfaction and burnout, rather than fulfillment. It's here that contentedness offers an alternative path, one that allows us to find peace and joy in the present moment, regardless of external circumstances. One of the reasons contentment is so powerful is because it counteracts what psychologists call the hedonic treadmill. This concept explains how we quickly return to a baseline level of happiness after positive or negative life events. No matter how exciting a promotion, vacation, or new achievement might be, the thrill wears off, and we find ourselves wanting more. The pursuit of happiness becomes like running on a treadmill—we expend effort, but we never truly get anywhere. Research shows that even major life changes, like winning the lottery or experiencing a significant setback, only temporarily affect our happiness. In time, we return to our pre-existing levels of happiness. This is why chasing happiness, as it’s traditionally defined, can leave us feeling perpetually unsatisfied. Contentment, on the other hand, teaches us to step off the treadmill and appreciate the steady joy found in everyday moments. "Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product." – Eleanor Roosevelt Eleanor Roosevelt’s wisdom hits at the heart of what many of us misunderstand about happiness. It’s not something we can achieve by constantly striving. Instead, it's something that arises naturally when we focus on living with purpose, cultivating relationships, and being present. This shift from happiness as an outcome to contentedness as a practice is one that can transform how we approach both our personal and professional lives. I’ll be honest—there was a time when I believed the next accomplishment or the next milestone would finally bring me the lasting happiness I was seeking. I thought if I could just reach the next level in my career or hit a personal goal, I’d feel complete. But after each success, I found myself wanting more, wondering why the satisfaction didn’t last. A turning point came during a particularly intense period of juggling multiple projects and turning down invitations from family and friends so that I could work extra hours. One afternoon, I paused to reflect on what was truly driving me and what is it that I truly value.  I realized that in my relentless pursuit of doing more, I was missing out on appreciating what I already had—an amazing community, fulfilling work, and the opportunity to make a real impact. That realization was the beginning of my journey toward contentedness. I began to focus less on external achievements and more on cultivating a sense of peace and satisfaction with the life I was living in the moment. Research supports the idea that contentment, more than the fleeting highs of happiness, leads to a more sustainable sense of well-being. Studies show that people who practice gratitude, mindfulness, and acceptance of the present moment tend to experience higher levels of life satisfaction. A study from the University of California found that practicing gratitude daily can increase overall well-being by up to 25%. Another study, published in The Journal of Positive Psychology, found that people who focus on their immediate experience rather than future desires report greater life satisfaction and emotional well-being. These findings reinforce the idea that contentment isn’t about settling for less, but about recognizing the abundance in the present moment. Three Reflection Questions What do I have right now in my life—relationships, experiences, opportunities—that I am grateful for but may be taking for granted? How often do I find myself chasing after the next big achievement, and how does that impact my sense of fulfillment? What small changes can I make in my daily routine to cultivate contentment and appreciate the present moment? We are often taught to keep pushing forward, to measure our success by external milestones. But true well-being and happiness isn’t about reaching a destination—it’s about the journey.  Contentment is the practice of finding joy in the every day, of recognizing that we already have what we need to feel fulfilled. It’s about breaking free from the hedonic treadmill and discovering that the path to well-being is rooted in presence, gratitude, and acceptance. Let’s embrace the power of contentedness together. As you reflect on your own journey, remember that well-being is not something to chase, but something to cultivate—right here, right now. Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Zaruba Fountaine Founder, Empower Possible Hiking, enjoying the Fall colors, and feeling content.  Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Contentment Is An Attitude 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 giveWhen 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. Source:https://www.stresslesscountry.com/poemscontentment.html

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, 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.