Celebration of Milestones

 

August 4, 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!

Celebration of Milestones The moving truck at our house in Northfield. This year we moved from Duluth to Northfield, which marked the end of one phase of life and the celebration of a new one. Dear Empowered Reader, As we reach the eighth month of the year I find myself reflecting on the profound importance of celebration. For me, this year, more than ever, has been marked by many milestones, 40th and 50th birthday celebrations, several anniversaries, new roles, a few goodbyes, and transformative experiences. These moments, whether personal or professional, are not just markers of time but are opportunities to pause, reflect, and honor the journey. In my roles as a change manager, well-being specialist and through my personal experience I have learned about the importance of celebration. One of the steps in Change Management processes is to plan celebrations for small and big milestones.  Celebration is a regenerative act. It replenishes our energy, deepens our sense of belonging, and reminds us of our capacity for joy. According to Chip and Dan Heath, authors of The Power of Moments, celebrations are “defining moments”—experiences that elevate our spirits, deepen our connections, and create lasting memories. These moments give shape to our lives, transforming ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Dan Heath’s research on “bright spots” highlights the importance of celebration. Our brains are naturally wired to focus on problems, what’s broken, what’s missing, what needs fixing. However, when we intentionally seek out and celebrate what’s working, those bright spots, we shift our perspective from one of scarcity to one of abundance. This practice not only boosts our motivation and resilience but also inspires those around us to believe in the possibility of positive change. “Celebrations are the punctuation marks of our lives. They give us permission to pause, reflect, and savor the journey.”  Chip & Dan Heath For example, with the celebration of a milestone birthday, I wanted to make space for reflection and building connections. One of my favorite ways to reflect is through the Mountain 10 process. I decided to lead a couple of Mountain 10 retreats in order to slow down, to listen deeply, build community, and refect on what do I want right now. The Mountain 10 retreat was not just a pause from routine, but a celebration of being present, alive, and open to possibility. Another milestone that stands out for me this year is approaching my first anniversary as Change Manager/Planning Director. Stepping into this role was both exciting and nerve-racking. The responsibilities were significant: developing and implementing change management strategies for an entire State agency, supporting communication efforts, assessing change impact, and guiding teams through transitions. When I felt unsure, I reminded myself about the heart of the role. It is about topics I study and implement every day, which are helping individuals and teams navigate uncertainty, build resilience, and embrace new ways of working. The first few months were a whirlwind of learning, listening, and adapting. There were moments when the path forward seemed unclear. Yet, as I reflect on this milestone, I am struck by the bright spots, the small victories that often go unnoticed. I remember the first time a team member shared how our new communication plan made them feel more included and valued. I recall the collective relief when a challenging project reached a successful conclusion, thanks to the dedication and collaboration of so many. To celebrate this milestone, I organized a virtual gathering with my team. Instead of focusing solely on outcomes, we shared stories of growth, resilience, and the ways we had supported one another. We named our bright spots, acknowledged challenges, and expressed gratitude for the journey. That celebration reinforced for me that milestones are not just about personal achievement, but about the communities we build and the lives we touch along the way. Celebration is not a distraction from the work of regeneration; it is essential to it. By pausing to honor our milestones, we create space for reflection, gratitude, and renewed purpose. Dan Heath’s concept of “bright spots” is especially relevant: by shining a light on what’s working, we foster a culture of possibility and hope. Celebrating milestones, whether personal or professional, helps us build confidence, foster connection, and inspire others to believe in their potential. In the world of well-being and change, this is especially true. My role is to guide people through transitions, to help them see not just the challenges but the opportunities for growth and renewal. Celebrating progress, no matter how incremental, builds momentum and resilience. It reminds us that every step forward is worth honoring. An Affirmation for This Season I honor every milestone, large or small, as a testament to my growth, regeneration, and capacity for joy. I celebrate my journey and the bright spots that light my path. Reflection Questions What milestone, personal or professional, are you most proud of this year, and how did you choose to celebrate it? (If you have not celebrated, how will you? ) Where have you noticed “bright spots” in your life or work that deserve acknowledgment and celebration? How can you create more intentional moments of celebration for yourself and those around you in the months ahead?  Ideas include: Plan a celebration meal with a friend or family member Visit your favorite shop or place in the city you live in Review your journal for moments of joy and savor them Take a personal day  Create a celebration playlist Closing Thoughts As we move through this milestone-rich year, I encourage you to pause and celebrate, not just the big achievements, but the small victories, the acts of courage, and the moments of connection. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or the quiet accomplishment of a personal goal, each milestone is a reminder of your capacity to regenerate, to grow, and to inspire others. Let’s continue to multiply our bright spots, honor our journeys, and celebrate the milestones together.  Do you have a celebration you want to recognize? Please share! info@empowerpossible.com With gratitude and celebration,  Julie Zaruba Fountaine  Founder, Empower Possible My husband and I celebrating his milestone birthday. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Scan the QR Code to sign up to be notified when the next Mountain 10 workshop is offered.  What is Mountain 10?                                                                                                                                                         During this three-hour workshop, we will focus on accessing your inner wisdom to bring about the changes you deeply desire in your life. We will use the Mountain 10 process, a proven, new technology for deep reflection on human change. It is based on the conviction that every person has the most important answers about direction, purpose, and calling within them. This directed reflection process leads you through four terrains of exploration, stopping at points on the journey to consider key questions about awareness, letting go, vision and realization. The terrains of your journey will take you into deeper observation of your feelings, thoughts, and images. You will explore what you need to let go of as you truly seek what you really want. We will open a space for a new vision and consider the practical steps to actualize that vision. We will deepen our insights in small circles of trust. Journaling and guided reflection will be used throughout the journey. Threads of Love, Author Unknown Cascading whispers in the night, Embraced by memories, shining bright. Love's gentle echo through the years, Binds us together, sharing joys and tears. Reverberating stories, our hearts entwined, A legacy of love, forever defined. Tales told in laughter, in every embrace, In the fabric of family, we find our place. Onward we carry this cherished refrain, Nestled in hearts, through joy and through pain.

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.

Icelandic Adventures

 

July 24, 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!

Icelandic Adventures Celebrating Regeneration, Community, and the Unexpected Map of Iceland Dear Empowered Reader, My husband and I just returned from an unforgettable trip to Iceland, and I’ve been reflecting on how much this beautiful country has to offer, not just in its landscapes, but in the lessons it has to teach. I wanted to share a few highlights and reflections from our trip that I hope will resonate with you. 1. Iceland is for those who seek the road less traveled.  Every trail we ventured down led us to places few others had seen. Iceland has a way of inviting you deeper into its untouched beauty, encouraging you to keep going, to explore beyond the obvious, and to find something extraordinary in the quiet, hidden corners of the world. 2. Iceland tests you in ways you don’t expect. International travel is always a mix of excitement and challenge, but Iceland pushed us physically and mentally. From its unpredictable weather to the rugged terrain and remote roads without services, we quickly learned that flexibility is just as important as our gear. But just as the Icelandic saying goes, “Enginn verður óbarinn biskup”—you don’t become a bishop without a beating. The journey might be tough, but the rewards are always worth the effort. 3. Iceland fosters a unique sense of connection. When traveling abroad, we’re often the minority, observing local customs and culture. But Iceland felt different. Outside Reykjavik, many of the people we encountered were travelers too. With a population of just 372,000, tourists often outnumber locals, which makes for an interesting blend of cultures and languages. It reminded me that despite our differences, we are all united by a shared curiosity and love of exploration. Welcome sign at the International Airport outside of Reykjavik, Iceland  Now, for more about the trip. When we landed in Reykjavik, the raw beauty of Iceland immediately struck us, and as our jet lag set in, we were happy we decided to start with time at a spa. Our first day, in particular, set the tone. We were able to experience a local tradition, the Sky Lagoon's Skjól Bathing Ritual. First, we relaxed in the warm geothermal waters, then took a brief but refreshing plunge into the cold. We followed up with a sauna and a warm mist. The ritual, which ended with a local drink and meal, was a perfect introduction to Iceland’s healing energy. By the time we left, the landscape felt even more vibrant, and we were ready to enjoy the rest of the trip. What does this mean for you?  Even if Iceland isn’t in your near future, creating moments of restoration in your life is key. Whether it’s a long bath, a quiet walk in nature, or simply pausing to breathe deeply, small acts of self-care can help you reset and regenerate, no matter where you are. An unmarked trail we came across at an unmarked pull off along side the road. We were in amazement that stumbled upon such a beautiful sight. Though we had read travel books and planned a loose itinerary, Iceland had a hand in influencing our ideas. The weather was constantly shifting, one moment it was sunny, the next, rain and wind swept through without warning.  Packing for every scenario was essential: layers, waterproof rain gear, a good sense of humor, and we quickly learned to be adaptable.  One morning, we set out to explore the famous waterfalls along the south coast. At Seljalandsfoss, the rain was relentless. But instead of retreating, we embraced the conditions, donned our rain gear, We laughed as we navigated the slippery path behind the falls, soaked but exhilarated by the natural beauty around us.  In that moment, I was reminded that sometimes, the best memories aren’t made in perfect conditions but in the willingness to dive into life as it is, wet, cold, and full of joy, and in awe of what we were experiencing.  But after a particularly stormy morning, the sun broke through at Dyrhólaey, casting light on the cliffs and black sand beaches. It was one of those moments when the landscape was both wild and serene. I realized that the weather wasn’t an obstacle; it was a teacher, reminding us to be present, adaptable, and open to surprise.   Driving around Iceland is an adventure in itself. The roads wind through fjords, along black sand beaches, and often cross narrow, unpaved paths. On our way to Vik, fierce winds blew across the landscape, making every turn a bit of a mystery.  But we remembered the advice of the locals: slow down, trust the road, and respect nature. That mindset became our mantra throughout the trip. Even small moments, like noticing the small mountain flowers, watching the ponies play in the fields, and taking a mindful moment while gazing at the ocean. In a land where nature can be harsh and unpredictable, the community becomes a lifeline. We saw the power of community in every small town we visited.   Iceland left me with a renewed belief in the importance of welcoming others and creating spaces where everyone feels like they belong. Traveling in Iceland also heightened my awareness of my responsibility as a guest. The natural beauty here is fragile, and the people work hard to protect it. There are constant reminders to respect wildlife, stay on designated paths, and leave no trace. We took this seriously, packing out our trash, supporting local businesses, and learning about the challenges faced by Icelandic communities. View from our hotel in Borganes. Affirmation: I welcome adventure with an open heart, embrace the unexpected with courage, and honor the communities and lands that host me. Every journey offers an opportunity for connection, care, and regeneration. Reflection Questions: When have you faced unexpected challenges during an adventure, and how did you adapt or grow from the experience? How can you cultivate a spirit of welcome and community, both at home and when traveling? In what ways can you act as a caretaker of people, places, or resources when you are a guest in a new environment? Our time in Iceland was a powerful mix of adventure, challenge, and connection.  It reminded me that regeneration isn’t just about personal renewal, it’s about how we show up for others and the world around us. Whether navigating unpredictable weather or creating a memorable experience, I hope you find joy in your journey. And may we all continue to regenerate our world, one adventure, one act of kindness, and one mindful step at a time. Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Founder, Empower Possible Puffins on the cliffs overlooking the black sand beaches. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription.

In the Media

🌱When Life Shifts, Here’s How We Stay Grounded🌱 I sat down with Liz Amys this week for an inspiring conversation on the Whole Mom Podcast. We talked about… 🌿 Navigating change 🔥 Moving from burnout to alignment 💫 Reconnecting with your inner compass 🧘🏼‍♀️The rituals and tools to manage overwhelm 💜 What it really means to live from your values and connect with your inner wisdom. If you’ve ever felt like you’re in a season of transition, uncertainty, or stuck, this one’s for you.  Press play and come back home to yourself. Take a listen and share with a friend. 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.