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

Freedom From the Clock

 

January 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!

Freedom from the Clock Dear Empower Possible Community  In our fast-paced world, the pursuit of work-life balance often feels like an elusive dream. We're bombarded with advice on time management, productivity hacks, and achieving the perfect equilibrium between our professional and personal lives. But what if I told you that the concept of work-life balance is not only flawed but also perpetuates myths that hold us back from true fulfillment? Join me on a journey of liberation as we challenge these myths and explore new perspectives on time, productivity, and well-being. During my latest guest spot on "Marketing Rebels: Breaking Business Barriers," take a listen, and together, we'll discover how to break free from the constraints of the clock and embrace a more holistic approach to managing our time and energy. Key Topics We'll Explore: Redefining Work-Life Harmony: Learn how to integrate your professional and personal life in a way that fosters fulfillment and success. Debunking Time Management Myths: Explore common misconceptions about time management and discover strategies to reclaim control of your schedule. Thriving Beyond Time: Unlock the secrets to thriving in both your professional and personal pursuits, without feeling tethered to the clock. This episode isn't just about dispelling myths—it's about empowering you to take control of your time and live a life that aligns with your values and aspirations.  For the full episode go to the website: https://empowerpossible.com/podcasts/ Partner with me: Explore collaboration opportunities: https://lnkd.in/gnWS_nEU Let's embark on this journey to redefine work-life harmony together! Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Passing Time by Maya Angelou Your skin like dawn Mine like musk One paints the beginning of a certain end. The other, the end of asure beginning.

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/

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/

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.

"I Dream Of Never Being Called Resilient"

 

January 22, 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!

“I dream of never being called resilient…” Dear Empowered Reader, This week, the focus of this newsletter is on mental health, delving specifically into the pervasive issue of burnout.  In the words of Zandashé L’Orelia Brown, "I dream of never being called resilient again in my life. I’m exhausted by strength. I want support. I want softness. I want ease. I want to be amongst kin. Not patted on the back for how well I take a hit. Or for how many." These words resonate deeply, highlighting the need for genuine connection and support rather than being applauded for overcoming unending and countless challenges. It prompts us to reflect on the negative moments we may be experiencing and what we truly need. Reflection Questions: What activities do you find yourself taking on as additional responsibilities regularly, both personally and professionally? In moments of challenge, what kind of support, softness, or ease would make a significant difference for you? How can you foster a community of kinship that prioritizes well-being over the perception of resilience through endurance? Physicians emphasize several common signs of burnout, such as anxiety, headaches, lack of sleep, fatigue, and an increasingly cynical outlook on life and work.  Take a moment to reflect: Have you noticed an uptick in any of these in your life or the lives of those around you? Below are a few free resources to help. Believe me, I know from personal experience it is difficult to prevent and overcome burnout and it is possible! Resources from www.empowerpossible.com: Navigating Career Transitions Guide:  Unlock the doors to your transformative journey by downloading the FREE “Navigating Your Career Transitions” Workbook. This resource is your key to self-discovery, guiding you to uncover your core values, strengths, and passions. Gratitude Meditation: Immerse yourself in a transformative journey of gratitude and joy with our Gratitude Meditation Free Course, where you’ll cultivate a daily practice that uplifts your spirit, enhances your well-being, and fosters a deeper appreciation for life’s blessings. This newsletter is a gentle reminder that acknowledging and addressing burnout is not a sign of weakness but an act of profound strength. It's a commitment to your well-being and an investment in a healthier, more sustainable future. In the coming days, on the EMPOWER Possible Social Media pages, I'll share insights, resources, and strategies to help you navigate and combat burnout. Let's build a community that prioritizes support, softness, and ease.  Together, we empower each other to thrive. Wishing you resilience that stems from genuine connection and well-being that goes beyond endurance. With warmth, Julie Founder, EMPOWER Possible Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. You Need Help But Not From Us': A Poem on Burnout by Rita Agarwal, MD  Teacher of the year, again Research publications, galore. Honors, accolades, committees Leadership positions, ad nauseum Excellence in clinical care Best Lecture, best lecturer, best doctor, best teacher. “Hey, I know you’re not on call, but can you…? ”“Hey, I know you’re off but could you ……?” “Hey, I know you’re in clinic but …..? ”Can you? Will you? Could you, help me? Three marathons lead to a bad hip. Successful surgery complicated by a fall. More surgery, then pus from the wound MRSA (of course)Aseptic meningitis, anemia, thrombocytopenia, superior venous thrombosis, Surgery again, again, and again “Hey, I know you’re sick but can you….?” “I know you don’t feel good but will you….?” “I know you’re recovering, but I need…….” Can you? Will you? Could you, help me? 80 hours a week for residents, Faculty just have to work harder. “Step up to plate, man. What is wrong with you?” “Hey, we’re short, everyone is working hard” “Try harder, work harder, what is wrong with you?" "100, 120, 140 hours a week….“ We paged you for hours, where were you?” “You were falling asleep writing notes” “Your EBL was way off” “One more mistake and you’re out”. “You need help…but not from us”. Depressed, defeated, desperate, humiliated, disgusted, drinking, “Do something. See someone." “Get help” “You were late, you left early, you’re not trying” “You were rude, your documentation is terrible, why aren’t you trying?” “You’re OUT” You Are OUT BURNED OUT

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 Stories That Inspire Us Podcast as it is relevant to this topic. 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 January 23, 2024  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 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/

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