FEATURED POST OF THE WEEK

Our long-form article of the week. You can always view the current and past featured posts on Empower’s blog.

A newsletter year in review

Edition 026 and the last newsletter of 2024! Wow, where did this year go…seriously.

Thank you for coming on this journey with us. I sincerely hope you’ve taken away valuable insight and actionable frameworks to elevate yourself and your business in 2024.

While this is a time of year for planning what’s next, it’s also one for reflection. So, as we inch closer to closing this year's chapter and starting anew, I’ve reflected on my vision for Empower and what I set out to accomplish with this newsletter.

Are we on the right track?

The intent behind this reflection has been to pulse-check whether I’ve made progress toward these objectives and determine if they still resonate. One of the best ways to make those assessments is by the feedback I receive from YOU!

While I take great care in crafting content I believe will support business builders, your continuous engagement gives me anecdotes and data to understand whether the newsletter has truly made an impact. So, I went back and looked at everything you’ve told me about your experience this year and summarized how this community has reacted to the newsletter so far.

What you’ve said!

Here’s a snapshot of what I’ve heard from you since launching the newsletter in May.

Behind the data: What’s resonating and what’s not

In addition to your direct feedback, here are the engagement trends and data around the content—the good and the bad.

The more you share, the better we’ll be together! I honestly mean that.

If you have thoughts to share about what you’ve taken away from the newsletter OR things you’ve disagreed with OR other constructive thoughts, I DO want to hear them. I will reply and I will take action. Reply to the newsletter email or ping [email protected].

P.S. - If you didn’t know, there’s a poll at the end of each newsletter. Quickly share your reaction. Then I’ll know whether its resonating with what you need!

P.P.S - If you missed our announcement last week about Empower Progress, fill out this three-question form to ensure you’re the first to know about the launch of our new offering in Q1 2025.

WEEKLY DOSE OF EMPOWERMENT

The weekly dose of Empowerment is meant to provide one weekly tip that’s both practical and approachable, to help drive incremental improvement to your day-to-day. We’re always open to your contributions as well. If you would like to submit a tip to be shared with the Empower community in a future newsletter, please reach out at [email protected] with the subject line “Weekly Dose of Empowerment Submission.”

Gain clarity from just a couple of deep breaths

I’ll be the first to admit it. I struggle with incorporating mindfulness and meditation into my daily routine. The closest I typically get to meditation is a 100-degree hot yoga room or HIIT training. Yes, exercise has traditionally been my form of cleansing the mind.

However, recently I was introduced to the practice of a deep cleansing breath. While I was initially reticent, I have to admit, it’s approachable and it works. There have been several times in the past month when I wasn’t sure what to focus on or had too many thoughts going through my head, and taking one minute (really, that’s all you need) for a deep cleansing breath helped with the clarity I needed to take the next step forward.

Here’s how it works

• Sit comfortably. Whether this is in your office chair, on your couch or sitting on your bed, situate yourself in a comfortable position.

• Ground your feet. Place your feet firmly on the floor.

• Close your eyes. Remove distractions and allow yourself to be present for this short period.

• Breathe deeply in for multiple counts and then out. As you do, relax your muscles and release the clutter in your mind.

• Repeat 2-3x. Allow yourself to take a couple more breaths.

• Open your eyes. Re-enter your space. Did that idea you need come to you?

In addition to helping gain clarity, deep cleansing breaths also help reduce stress and tension in your body. If you’re like me and either a little skeptical or can’t find the time for a more committed meditation practice, try this out and let me know if it gives you a boost!

JESSICA’S READ, OR LISTEN, PICK OF THE WEEK

A little something that got my gears turning this week and might pique your interest as well!

From the Momentum Makers Podcast: Episode 79 | How to Boost your Business Efficiency with Jessica Murray

TL;DR

Another fun part of this year has been the opportunity to share the Empower story and what we do across different mediums, including podcasts. In October, Momentum Makers invited me as a guest and we talked about a wide range of topics, including:

• How I’ve navigated my career journey from Wall Street to tech to launching a business.

• Who Empower works with and our approach to helping partners.

• Why I think focusing on operations is key to driving business success.

Have a listen for the full scoop!

JUST FOR FUN

Really, this section is just for fun. Who knows what will be in store each week?

I’ve been having fun figuring out how much ChatGPT has learned about me this year.

In the spirit of ringing in a new year, I recently asked ChatGPT the following prompt: “Based on what you know about me, create an image that depicts how you would expect me to spend New Year's Eve.”

The response?

“Here's an image capturing a warm, inviting New Year's Eve celebration that blends sophistication with comfort—just as I imagine you might spend the holiday.”

Try it out and send what you get back!

LOOKING FOR MORE EMPOWERMENT?

You’ve worked hard to build your business. Let’s work together to make it last. We want to be your partner in the journey to develop the business that lives into your vision.

There are four primary ways Empower can partner with you to support getting your business to the next level. Click the image below to learn more about our core offerings.

If you’re ready to take the step, reach out to discuss how we can support your goals. 

If you were forwarded this newsletter and enjoyed it, I encourage you to subscribe and join the Empower community.