Aaron Huizenga’s Post

 Wisdom Do you believe that you possess wisdom? Now remember that there is a difference between intelligence and wisdom. In basic terms intelligence is the knowing of facts, or processes, and tends to lean toward the academic. Wisdom on the other hand is far deeper. There is intelligence, coupled with experience, then sprinkled with emotion and objectivity. It is the deeper application of intelligence situationally, and with varying degrees of pressure, that produces wisdom. When I think of a person of wisdom, I picture the age-old sage, the oracle if you will, that seems to have all of the answers to the questions that we cannot answer for ourselves. The one that you turn to when you need an answer and cannot find it either internally or externally. The one that speaks with you, or sits with you, and your answers somehow seem to appear, and with crystal clarity. Wise people help us when we ask, they don't seek us out, they wait intentionally. When we do go to them, when we are at the end of our abilities, what happens? They don't tell us what to do. It would be so much easier if they would just give us the answer so that we could move forward and get back on track. So why don't they? They help us to seek our own answers. They may not even have the answer, but they have the ability to help us, which is why we keep going back to them. People of wisdom have the ability to help us navigate the ambiguity that exists in our own minds that is blocking us from being able to figure out our own solutions. They offer reflection, because they know us on a different level than we may even know ourselves. They don't see a hard charging, educated, always hustling person. They might see this, 'they work hard but why, what is the driving force?' They look through the outside show and into our personalities. Wise people in our lives, ask us about us. When we come to them with problems and issues, they ask us more questions, maybe throw in a story or two about a similar time in their life, and then relate it back to us and as us another self-reflecting question. They think before they speak, and they listen before they respond. Now I ask you this. Do you possess wisdom? For those that come to you do you really see them? Do you really know them? Can you listen with the intent to understand and not just respond? If you can and if you do, then you are on your way to being that sage, the mentor, and the one that others in your life will turn to when they are in need. Then you pay it forward. You share that wisdom. You help them find and figure out their own solutions. Seek to be wise as well as being intelligent. Again, the more you know.

 Finish What You Start I started a garden, and a class, and a podcast and a and a and a. But what did you then not finish? We can start a million things and we have the predilection to start, but why do we not finish that which we start? Are we afraid it might not be right. Or it might not be good. Why would we start if we don’t want to finish? Perhaps we start because we want to try something, or that it might be fun, and that is a great attitude, encouraged even. I have tried oysters, and yoga, and being a backyard mechanic, but as a trial only. Needless to say, I didn't really try them more than once or twice. When I state that we should finish what we start, I am referring to the bigger things. There is an underlying root to starting. An instinct that says we should. So why don’t we finish all that we start? Humans are curious, creative, and in search of a greater understanding of our place in the world and where we fit into it. We see things on social media, and in our daily lives and think, I could do that too!! So, we try something new. A new experience, or hobby, or activity, or fill in your own blank. Why then, if we were so excited to start, do we not see it through to some sort of conclusion? There are several reasons that I could find, the projects or interests might be too complex, or the costs too high, but more often than not, there is the fear of being judged, or that the start will not live up to expectations. Alas, boredom. It is taking too long and there isn't enough time to devote to this project because it is taking away from some other part of my life. Here are few thoughts on these reasons for abandoning starts. First, do you really want to start or are you starting because 'everyone else is doing it'? Second, check out the time investment prior to getting started, can you commit to it? Some starts are easy, like drinking more water, or taking some vitamins, small time and cost efforts that can fit into anyone's busy day. Next, ask yourself what you are hoping to gain from starting this new thing. If it is not glaringly obvious, then maybe you shouldn't start. Lastly, when you do start, finish it! See it all the way through. That is really the only way that you are going to be able to either write another chapter in your life that includes this new thing or not. When you finish, and arrived at an emotional feeling that is different than your prediction you can take stock of the situation and the feelings and decide to make it a part of your life, or move on to the next thing. Get started on your thing, but FINISH IT!! You will thank yourself in the end. Again, the more you know.

What Do You Create? We are all creators of something. We create ideas, and plans, points of view, and relationships. In all reality we create our own versions of ourselves. Others may have influence in that creation, but only you can create yourself. It happens based on your mindset, your experiences, and your background. It comes from your roots. It is further formed by the way that we see and process the information that we collect from the world around us and the interactions that we have. We are continually changing and modifying our creations. What we created at 6 years old looks very different from what we create in our 20's, 40's, and 60's. Our creations become more complex as our life experiences and educations become more complex. Our view of the world and our place in it change over time, and so do our creations. Like our homes, the backyard, your career, and even your family. Things change, the chapters and phases of your life are intertwined with creations and laced with experiences that continually modify what you create. Often times what you create in one arena of your life will alter the creations in other parts of your life, as they are all intermingled and homogenized with the everything else emotionally. Although some may be able to have compartmentalized thinking, or emotional selves are not afforded that luxury, those are all in our soul together sharing space. When we have a passion to create in one area it generally spills over to another and then more creation happens. So, what are you creating right now? Are you working on your legacy, or your personal and professional successes? Perhaps it is an involvement in a community group, an interpersonal relationship. Maybe it is your education or your technical skillset, or your understanding of a subject that interests you personally. Does what you create come from the heart or from your soul? Do you bake, or write, or sing, or paint? You are creating something, either for yourself or others that comes wholly from you, it's creator. Whatever it is that you are creating, feed that spirit the nutrition that is needs to keep growing! Creation of something is instinctual to the human spirit and the world needs to see what you can create! Now get out there and make something!! Again, the more you know.

 Don't Chase the Pig! When I was 12 years old, I was in 4H, the year was 1986ish. I was the Reserve Grand Champion for swine at the county fair the year before and had a great entry into this year's county fair. That is when everything went wrong. When you show pigs in 4H they need to be clean, well mannered, and follow of the direction of the handler. As we backed the trailer into the yard to load the animals in for transport to the event, things went a bit sideways. The new Grand Champion, at least in my adolescent mind, was being loaded in the trailer when he escaped the temporary corral we had installed. The snow fence boundaries we set unknowingly included an unexpected escape route for this swine and he found it. As the pig ran around the front yard of our rural house, my father did his best impression of an NFL linebacker to tackle said swine, while my mother and I stood idly by and cried about the total chaos in the yard. She was worried about the running, and swearing, and time invested into this animal, and I was worried about lord only knows what. Eventually, though my dad's hard work, the animal was in the trailer and on the way to the county fair. Tears dried and emotions calmed we packed our bags for the week ahead. Nearly 40 years later I think about these few moments of my life and wonder this... what would have happened if we didn't chase the pig? Would it have stopped after 20 or 30 feet and began to smell the grass? Could we have simply redirected the animal into the trailer without all of the pomp and circumstance? Now I ask you this, do you need to chase the pig? Can you wait for it to calm itself and come to a simpler resolution? I use the term pig for any number of items that could be 'running' around the yard in your life. Could it be interoffice drama, or a difficult customer, or a child that just can't seem to follow directions? You still have to deal with that pig, but think about approaching it a bit more slowly, and with calculated steps and a plan. Don't run around in-sighting more chaos, but with a level head and calmness, you may be able to walk your problem situation right back into the barn! If you are able to stay focused on the situation, once you have had the ability to take in the necessary information, you can then make a plan. Then act on the plan. Finally, show that pig who is in charge! Again, the more you know. Aaron

Got a sneak peak at the new book from Tucker Perkins Propane Education & Research Council named Path to Zero, and I would HIGHLY encourage everyone to check it out. It is both truthful and informative. Check it out here, https://lnkd.in/gXivv3XM to get your copy ordered! You will be glad you did!

Giving to Gain Are you a giver, or a taker? Would you rather give something away or receive something from someone else? Personally, I am a giver. At least I think I am. That might be better answered by those closest to me, but for now, yes, a giver. Is it because I feel like there is already enough in my life that I can share or because there is something more that comes from giving? Depending on the stage of your career, you may be more than you were last year, or in your 20's. But does that make you more now than you were then? I say that to say this, giving is not just about money. Money is part of it for sure, but giving has so many other wonderful forms that don't have dollar signs attached to them. And giving also has so many beautiful emotional benefits that cannot be monetized. Do you ever do something for someone else just because it feels good? Short story, I have a neighbor that enjoys clearing the snow from all of the sidewalks and driveways around his house. If I am not out with the shovel or snowblower by 8am he is cleaning out my driveway, and the house across the street, and the ladies house on the other side of his own. He is a giver. It makes him happy to help out in our little corner of the world. I have asked him why before and he simply says, "you're a busy guy, and you travel. I like doing it, and if it helps you out, then I am happy to do it." According to the Cleveland Clinic researchers, we are all wired to be givers. It increases the feel-good chemicals in our bodies like dopamine and serotonin, so why wouldn't you give? Giving can add to feelings of personal growth and satisfaction, as well as improving your mood. If you are committed to being a giver now, what are you going to give? There are community organizations that are always looking for help. There are propane industry groups and associations that would love to have someone give some time and experience. For me, I like to share knowledge and experiences with others. I like to do for others. I like to help and lend a hand as often as I can. If there is something that I can do so that you can spend your time elsewhere, then I am your guy. I encourage each of you to take a look at your life and seek out opportunities where you can give, give back, and then gain the emotional benefits of enhancing the lives of others through the efforts of your own. Again, the more you know.

Propane Days on Capitol Hill! Going to be a busy day talking about propane with our federal legislators from The Great State of Wisconsin! With Chad Kroening we got some walking and talking to do today!!

The 5 P's By a show of hands how many people are planners? I raised both hands because I usually have a plan behind the plan to make sure that the plan is planned. Here are the 5 P's; Proper Planning Prevents  Poor  Performance. I hadn't heard this before until a friend recently shared it with me. There is actually a 6th P, between Prevents and Poor, but if I put it in here it will most likely get censored out. Everyone needs a plan, as business professionals, parents, farmers, builders, and the list goes on. You are a planner whether you know it or not. What are you making for dinner tonight? You had to have had a plan at one point to either buy the groceries or make a reservation.  Going on a trip? Hotels, directions, time off, etc.  Now let's take this one step further, there are plans, and then there are PLANS.  Think about how you would deal with taking your vehicle to a mechanic and the conversation starts, "well Mrs. Jones, we are just going to start taking things apart until we find what we think is wrong. Then we are going to put some new parts in and see if your problem is fixed. By the way, we aren't really sure what that is going to cost, but we will let you know." There is a plan but, I think that I am finding a new mechanic. I am often asked, "how to you plan on making that happen?" a proper plan has been thought out, calculated, and is awaiting execution, long before that question is ever posed to me. It would sound something like this, "we have prepared social media posts for the event, flyers are being printed, those involved know their roles, and the costs have come inside the budget. We have a time and space for the event reserved and will be setting up at this time." A shoot from the hip plan may sound like this, "I was thinking that when we get there, we could see what is available and talk to some people and then, as a group, we could then... blah blah".  Which of those two sounds like Proper Planning? In our work lives we strive to ensure that we don't have Poor Performance, so we make a plan. We measure results from previous attempts, we correct items that were not planned for, and we formulate a new plan. We are Properly Planning to Prevent Poor Performance. Nailed all 5 of them! So why do we not do this all the time? There are time constraints, and incomplete information, and people problems, and scheduling, and so on. If your task is properly planned you have accounted for some, most, or all of those contingencies. Here is my request of all of you, if you are not a planner, then try to start. Start small, maybe it is planning all your dinners for the week and shopping just one time.  When you plan, you need to focus, thinking time, and the mental space to identify any potential issues with your plan. You can also plan in stages, what needs to happen first, then second, and work on them individually as time and focus allow. Give Proper Planning a try, you may just find that your good at it! Again, the more you know.

 Roots We all have them, some are old and deep, and others are new and growing. There are roots to everything that we do. You have your family roots, your lineage and family tree (roots and branches). There are roots in faith, even if you don't consider yourself a religious person. Your learning, and education have roots. Your background and areas of interest. Classes, courses, and books. Your leading, managing, and professional experiences have roots. What you have experienced, what you imitate, and what you have created for yourself. If we think about any of these roots, what is their primary biological purpose? To feed the tree or plant. To obtain nutrients and water to produce something. Maybe it is a fruit or a flower. Could it be a relationship or more branches to that family tree. Professionally it could be said that your roots have grown you into a leader or an educator, a speaker, or a writer. Perhaps your sales skills or technical abilities. Your roots have produced the fruits of your life. Healthy roots grow the branches and produce the fruit you enjoy every day. Now if we say that roots produce branches and branches produce the desired outcome then how do we maintain that health? A heathy plant needs attention. Branches need to be trimmed, sick or dying stalks need to be cut for the health of the plant if we want the rest of it to continue to produce. Have you ever passed an apple or cherry orchard after the harvest? There are many thousands of branches cut off and lying about to help that tree produce even more fruit in the following season. Sometimes branches need to be trimmed for the health of the rest of the organism. Not every branch is a good branch. Now think unproductive tasks, or toxic relationships. Conversations, actions, or habits in your life. Those are some bad branches that are not contributing, and potentially poisoning the rest of tree. Can you identify some of these branches in your life? These tasks and people that bring no value to your journey in producing more and bigger fruits. I implore you to take a few moments after reading this to expose at least two bad branches in your life, we all have them. Then take another moment to make a commitment to yourself to take the first steps in pruning those branches off your tree. It may be difficult, and it may feel uncomfortable, but after it is done, you will be a healthier tree! The health of those branches are what help to feed and strengthen the depth and power of your roots. Good luck, and happy pruning!! Again, the more you know.

 Where Can You Contribute? “It’s a big ass little industry." I heard this phrase recently at an industry event and the statement took a bit of time to marinade with me, and I couldn't agree more! As new people enter the industry and want to be involved, and do more, they don't really know where to start, or move out of their comfort zone. Here are my suggestions. You may even wonder where you could contribute or if your desires and skillsets can be leveraged for the greater good of the industry. As someone who is involved in the local, state, and national groups inside the industry, I encourage you to show up. And then show up again, and again, and again. Not much is going to happen at the first event that you attend. But it will, trust me, if you keep showing up, your involvement in committees and work groups will happen organically. Be patient and ask questions. These questions and curiosity will help to direct you into the areas where you have a passion or desire to do more. Whether it is government affairs, safety, code and compliance, education, communications, and so on. Now that you have been showing up and asking questions, and you have found your niche as to where you fit into the big little picture you will have a greater understanding of where the industry is heading. Then your continued involvement will allow you a platform from which you can help to create the vision and direction moving forward. Be involved, be patient, make new contacts, and form new relationships. It is a big little industry, and it needs you to help moving in the right direction long term. There are dozens of places where your specific skills and personality can make a difference. Start small but start. Reach out to your state association, or the NPGA, or PERC, there are lots of pathways to find a place to take that first step. Woody Allen has been quoted saying "99% of life is just showing up" and "90% of success is simply showing up." Be your own champion. Find some comfort in your own accomplishments whether they come with external accolades or not. Get involved for the satisfaction of making a difference, it will happen!! Again, the more you know.