Navigating the Holidays with Compassion and Understanding

 

December 4, 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 weekly basis. Let's Get Empowered!

Navigating the Holidays with Compassion and Understanding Dear Empowered Reader, As we are in the middle of the holiday season many of us find it is typically filled with joy and togetherness, I wanted to share a touching story that underscores the significance of compassion, understanding, and community during this time as it may not be as joyful as it seems. Meet Greg, he is a neighbor of mine, he lives across the street from me. I am not the most mechanically inclined nor do I know much about home maintenance. This has often led to very humbling experiences. Greg is the kind of neighbor who is always there to lend a helping hand. From the time I needed help learning how to secure my 10-foot kayak to my very small car or the time my car got stuck in a snowbank in front of my house.  Greg has always been there to assist me. Throughout the years, I have had the privilege of conversing with Greg about his journey. His story serves as a poignant reminder that the holiday experience varies for each person. A few years ago, Greg faced several profound losses casting a shadow over the approaching festivities. The holiday season, once a source of joy, now serves as a painful reminder of the void left behind. Navigating through the sea of holiday greetings has become an emotional challenge. During this time he shared with me that he is, "counting down the days until it is all over".  In the spirit of Empower Possible, let's unite as a community to support Greg and others who may be facing similar struggles during this time. As empowered people, our collective strength has the power to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us. Here are a few simple ways we can spread love and kindness: Reach Out: A heartfelt message, a phone call, or a handwritten note can convey the depth of your care. Inclusive Gatherings: Consider organizing gatherings that cater to various emotional needs. Creating spaces for connection beyond traditional celebrations can make a significant difference. Acts of Kindness: Small gestures, such as assisting with errands or offering a listening ear, can foster a sense of community and support. As we embark on this holiday season, let's make it a time of healing, understanding, and unity. Together, we can empower each other and create a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. To take this idea a step further, consider these questions: How can I foster inclusivity in my holiday celebrations to accommodate diverse emotions? What small acts of kindness can I incorporate into my daily life to uplift those around me? In what ways can I create a sense of community and support for those who may be facing challenges this holiday season? Wishing you a season filled with love, compassion, and shared joy. Take care, dear reader, Julie Founder,  Empower Possible Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Now by Chas. R. Skinner  If you have kind words to say, Say them now. Tomorrow may not come your way Do a kindness while you may, Loved ones will not always stay; Say them now. If you have a smile to show, Show it now. Make hearts happy, roses grow, Let the friends around you know, The love you have before they go, Show it now.

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 Monday Positivitea with Parul Podcast as it is relevant to this topic This time of year it always seems there is not enough time. Want Freedom From The Clock? Check out this episode about Balancing Self-Discipline, Soul Purpose, and Self-Love for True Freedom. Check out the episode linked HERE to learn tips about finding work-life harmony, setting boundaries, and gaining freedom from the clock! 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 © 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 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.

Thank you for your readership!

 

Celebrating  with Gratitude!

Un-Caped Heroes: Embrace Your Power, Share Your Story, Reflect

 

Dear Empowered Reader, I hope this message finds you embracing the superhero within. As your devoted well-being specialist, I'm thrilled to share a recent highlight—a conversation I had with Stacy on her podcast, Un-Caped Heroes. If you haven't had the chance to tune in, you can catch the episode here. (https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/un-capedheroes-thepodcast/episodes/512-w-Julie-Zabura-Fountaine-e2b7rnf/a-aahs2nj).  Let's dive into the main topics of our discussion: Embracing Imperfections: Easier said than done, accepting imperfections is a journey I continue to navigate. During our conversation, I opened up about my own struggles, sharing a personal experience where I felt vulnerable and imperfect. It was a moment that transformed into strength, reminding me that authenticity is a superpower in itself. The Power of Connection: Reflecting on my life, I recounted a time when a close friend became my unsung hero. Their unwavering support during a challenging period became my anchor, showcasing the incredible strength drawn from interpersonal bonds. It was a vivid illustration of how collective support can elevate us. Mindfulness and Care for Self and Others: Being a well-being advocate, I shared a personal anecdote about incorporating mindfulness into my routine. A simple daily practice became a source of resilience, allowing me to navigate stress with grace. This firsthand experience underscored the transformative potential of mindfulness and self-care. Now, turning the spotlight to you: Reflections: Self-Exploration: Recall a recent event where you felt like an un-caped hero. For me, it was a moment of vulnerability turned strength. What about you? What lessons did you learn from embodying your superhero spirit? Community Connection: Identify the undercover heroes in your circle. In my case, it was a friend who played a pivotal role. Who supports you, bringing positivity to your community? How do they contribute to making it a better place? Mindful Practices: Share a moment from your day when you embraced mindfulness. For me, it was a daily practice of gratitude that transformed worry into well-being. How do these pauses impact your mood and overall well-being? Any ideas to add more peace to your routine? Let these reflections be your guide to discovering your inner un-caped hero. As I wrap up, I would like to send a heartfelt shout-out to our everyday heroes! From the family and friends who stand by us to the neighbors spreading good vibes—each unsung hero deserves recognition. Challenge of the Month:  Share Your Heroic Journey Calling all storytellers!  Share your wins or spotlight someone awesome using #EMPOWERpossible on social media. Your story might just inspire others on their journey. Remember, the well-being journey is a team sport.  Together, we're a league of un-caped heroes! Take care, dear reader, Julie Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. For my mother,  by Marianne Griffith A hero to me is not just a person who died for their country or went inside a burning building or stuff like that. A hero to me is a single mother who survives every day by herself, A teenager against all odds getting through life, An alcoholic walking into a rehab center, A father being not just a father but a friend, caregiver, supporter, a brick wall for his kids. A friend, who no matter what or how wrong you are, stands up for you and takes your side. A hero, who no matter how hard they are being hit or pushed or beat down, no matter how bad they are emotionally or physically or psychologically,they stand up and keep going. They push through the pain of life, love, kids, work, school, drugs,sports, parents, heartbreak, alcohol; that to me is a hero. A person who isn't just there, but is there living, breathing, and surviving.

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 highlighting Un-Caped Heroes with Stacey.  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! 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

Embrace the Power of Letting Go

 

November 4, 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!

Embrace the Power of Letting Go Dear Empowered Reader Today, I want to delve into the transformative power of letting go—a concept that, when embraced, can pave the way for profound well-being and personal growth. Recently, I found myself enjoying the novel "Lessons in Chemistry." As a well-being enthusiast, I often turn to books and poetry for inspiration and insights. The story, filled with twists and turns, took me on a journey of self-reflection. However, my relationship with the narrative took an unexpected turn when I stumbled upon the TV adaptation, also titled "Lessons in Chemistry." Admittedly, I was hesitant at first. How could a TV show capture the essence of a book I liked so much. I found myself comparing each scene, each character, to the images I had conjured in my mind while reading. It wasn't until I consciously decided to let go of my preconceived notions and expectations that I truly began to appreciate the show for what it was—an interpretation that brought a unique perspective to the story. This experience led me to draw a parallel between my reluctance to embrace the TV show and our tendency to hold onto past experiences, relationships, or even ideas about ourselves. Just as I needed to release my rigid grip on the book to fully enjoy the TV adaptation, we sometimes need to let go of the past to fully embrace the present. Letting go doesn't mean erasing the past—it means releasing the tight hold it has on us. It's about making room for new experiences, new relationships, and most importantly, a new version of ourselves. Just as "Lessons in Chemistry" took on a new life in its TV adaptation, our lives can take on new dimensions when we allow ourselves the freedom to evolve. Here are a few reflections on the art of letting go for your own journey toward well-being: Embrace Change: Change is inevitable, and it often brings growth and opportunity. Instead of resisting it, try to welcome change with an open heart. Just as the TV adaptation added a fresh perspective to the story, change can enrich your life in unexpected ways. What expectations or preconceived notions are you holding onto in your life right now that might be hindering your ability to fully embrace new experiences or perspectives? Forgive and Release: Holding onto grudges and resentment weighs us down. Practice forgiveness, not just for others but also for yourself. Let go of the heavy burden, and you'll find newfound lightness. Think of a recent situation where you found it challenging to let go, whether it be a past mistake, a relationship dynamic, or an old belief about yourself. How might releasing your grip on that situation create space for personal growth and positive change? Live in the Present: The present moment is where life unfolds. Letting go of past regrets or anxieties about the future allows you to fully engage with the richness of the present. Just as I found joy in the TV show when I let go of my expectations, you can find joy in the present when you release the need for perfection or control. Consider a moment in your life when you successfully navigated a significant change or transition. What lessons did you learn from that experience, and how can those lessons be applied to your current journey of letting go and embracing the present? As we navigate the intricacies of life, let us remember that letting go is not a sign of weakness but a testament to our strength and resilience. Embrace the unknown, savor the present, and watch as the chapters of your life unfold with newfound beauty. Wishing you a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Take care dear reader, Julie Rico and I talked about the Art of Letting Go on his podcast. We covered a lot of ground during our conversation. Including the topic of mental health therapy. I believe mental health therapy is helpful especially when learning to let go. Here's the link: https://www.spreaker.com/user/ricoc/the-art-of-letting-go-letting-go-of-your Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Good Bones  by Maggie Smith Life is short, though I keep this from my children. Life is short, and I’ve shortened mine in a thousand delicious, ill-advised ways, a thousand deliciously ill-advised ways I’ll keep from my children.  The world is at least fifty percent terrible,  and that’s a conservative estimate, though I keep this from my children.  For every bird, there is a stone thrown at a bird.  For every loved child, a child broken, bagged, sunk in a lake.  Life is short and the world is at least half terrible,  and for every kind stranger,  there is one who would break you,  though I keep this from my children. I am trying to sell them the world.  Any decent realtor,  walking you through a real shithole, chirps onabout good bones:  This place could be beautiful,right? You could make this place beautiful.

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 chatted with Rico on the Art of Letting Go, tune in HERE .  An the end of the recording, we discuss mental health therapy. Rico and I have a difference of opinion on the topic. I wholeheartedly support mental health therapy and believe it is an important aspect of maintaining my own well-being. 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) Career Crossroads Course Launch!! 2) mspWellness Champions Event November 8th Virtual 3) HER Conversations Podcast 4) Java with Jason

Connect with me on social media! Copyright ©  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