Aaron Urbanski has given us the wonderful gift of reflection this month, with his thoughtful perspective on building versus destroying. Enjoy learning more about Aaron's journey in our Q+A below, and take a look at his feature in our August issue of En Root!
This month's theme is all about building versus destroying. Tell us how this theme has played a role in your personal or professional life.
I have been working professionally for over a decade. Starting out, I took the length of my working years for granted. Now, I have a deeper respect for the passage of time. Intentionally destroying in order to build something - and vice versa - makes time feel...less elusive.
At OutGrowth, we believe in designing the space and time to reimagine the path forward. How do you believe intentionally building can impact our perspective and influence our future decisions?
I used to love building with Lego. I was extremely committed to building sets by the manual. Now, I recognize many things in life must be built without an instruction manual. Sometimes we have to think outside the (Lego) box - find pieces that are not included in the manual. It is fun (and expensive) to order extra yellow Lego bricks so the blue space ship can have accents that suit your taste.
What is one hard lesson you learned in this past year that contributed to your growth?
There are ways I can affect how people perceive me. My reputation, though, is also affected by factors beyond my control. This is so difficult to accept.
What is one competency or skill you hope to develop in 2023?
I hope to (finally!) achieve my real estate appraiser license in 2023. I have been working on this for the past five years.
What inspires you?
My wife, Emily, and kids - Max and Paige - are relentlessly accepting of my idiosyncrasies; they validate my pursuit to be a good person.
At OutGrowth, we believe in preparing the next generation of leaders. What is one resource you'd recommend to those looking to carve out the time for growth in the next year?
In my En Root feature, I mention author Toshikazu Kawaguchi. The book I took the line from is 'Before the Coffee Gets Cold.' Literature from Japan has been important for my growth. Check out 'Sputnik Sweetheart' from Haruki Murakami, too!
What's next? What are you excited about in the coming year?
I am writing this on the first day of summer...and am honestly looking forward to shorter days. Less daylight is OK with me. My mind is quieter when the sun is sleeping. Also - sweater weather forever!
Aaron Urbanski is an educator and corporate trainer who now teaches professional workshops via Klatch. Come hang out with him!