Hey Reader,
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I recently attended a Meet-up for folks who were reeling from the election results. It was a huge turn-out and I listened to a lot of people. We were all craving connection and support after such a disappointing outcome.

What struck me most was the wide variety of opinions on why it happened. Everyone seemed to have a different theory, about whose fault it was.

This got me thinking about the difference between fault and responsibility, and it’s a distinction that feels especially important right now.

Fault is reactive—it’s about blame and looking for someone or something to hold accountable. It can feel satisfying in the moment, but it often keeps us stuck in cycles of frustration and finger-pointing.

Responsibility, on the other hand, is about taking ownership of our part. It’s an invitation to look inward and ask, “What’s my part?”—in the past, right now, and moving forward.

Taking responsibility doesn’t mean taking the blame. It means stepping into our power and choosing to make changes that ripple outward—starting with the inner work that creates real, lasting impact.

Here are 5 small but meaningful ways you can start taking responsibility today:

1. Listen Deeply to One Person Today:
   • Instead of rushing to respond or debate, take a moment to simply be with what the other person is sharing. Practice reflective listening—try listening for their feelings and needs without jumping in to fix or solve. You can use prompts like, “Tell me more,” or “What does that look like for you?” The goal here isn’t to agree or disagree but to truly understand. This kind of listening is an act of care that creates space for deeper connection.
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     You don't even have to do this with "the other side." Being with another person by truly listening cultivates intimacy and shows us our own part in relationship dynamics.
2. Notice When You Catch Yourself in Judgment:
   • When you find yourself judging—whether it’s yourself or someone else—pause for a moment. Get curious and ask, “Where is this coming from? Is this belief truly mine, or did I inherit it from someone or something else? Do I actually believe this?” This small practice helps us disrupt internalized systems of control and begin the process of unlearning.
3. Meet Your Needs:
   • Take a moment to tune into your body and ask, “What do I need right now?” Notice the sensations and feelings present, and experiment with different strategies to meet those needs. Remember, needs are independent of specific people or situations—they’re about what your body, heart, and mind are asking for. For example, if you notice a need for connection, you might call a friend, join a community space, or spend time in nature. The practice of meeting your needs is self-responsibility and self-care.
4. Be of Service:
   • Choose one small way to be of service today. It could be donating your time, energy, or resources to a community or organization that resonates with you. Whether it’s volunteering, making a donation, or simply showing up in support of someone else’s work, this act of service connects you to the larger whole and reminds you that your actions matter.
5. Reflect on a Recent Reaction and Get Curious:
   • Think back to a recent moment when you felt reactive or triggered. Instead of blaming yourself (or someone else), pause and get curious: What was the underlying need beneath that reaction? Consider exploring this with a trusted friend, mentor, therapist, or coach if it feels supportive. This process helps you build a deeper understanding of yourself and opens up space for growth and healing.

Things feel uncertain, and they may get tougher before they get better. When we’re overwhelmed or scared, it’s natural to shut down or look for someone to blame—we’re all seeking relief.

But asking, “What’s my part?”—even when it’s hard—liberates us from the old narratives that keep us stuck in the same patterns.

And we really need liberation right now.

In the next few days, I’ll share a resource to help channel your urge to act. It’s an invitation to connect with your deeper needs and desires, turning that energy into a true, loving devotion. If you’re wondering what to do next or how to navigate the uncertainty ahead, this guide will offer clarity and a new path forward.

With love and in solidarity,
Julie