your own operation and family, and the attitude of wanting to be involved in your future. What was impressive over this past year, was the number of younger people who ‘showed up’ at these events and demonstrated their willingness to get involved. Some were representatives of collegiate young cattlemen’s organizations and others were recently back on the ranch and all expressed that commonality of the importance of serving their industry. The leaders
GAINED WHILE GIVING One of the most exciting things I often hear when I do my presentations or visit with stockmen across the country about their roles serving their industry, is how much they gained while giving their time. The opportunity to meet and work alongside fellow producers from their states or even from across the country, to diving deep into a topic to increase their level of expertise on a topic or issue in
ducer can be comforting. Producers who have served in leadership roles have mentioned to me how their involvement provided them with an opportunity to re-charge their batteries and open their eyes to gain a different viewpoint. They often gain a new perspective realizing what is impacting them, may be universal to producers in other states. In difficult times it is reassuring to know others may be facing similar challenges.
__________
“The pride in what you do, the pride to produce a safe, quality beef supply for consumers, who have no possible way to grasp the hours you have put in, the exhaustion, stress, and worry you have experienced, is a testament to the excellence of individuals in agriculture and the cattle business.”
__________ the end is a rewarding experience to them. Knowing they provided input to shape the industry, participate in the discussion, and feel part of a greater team. The isolation and stress that can come from daily chores on the ranch while tackling weather challenges can be wearing. But realizing you are part of industry where your issues and challenges are not unlike that of another pro-
In fact, I heard one person say recently, these conventions are far more than just a cattlemen’s conference; they are relationship-building events. We all need fellowship especially during challenging times. Getting involved, supporting one another and gaining while giving is a testament to the people in our industry.
B. Lynn Gordon, Ph.D., Leader Consulting, LLC. Sioux Falls, SD. Lynn is an agricultural freelance writer and leadership consultant with an extensive background in the livestock industry. She can be reached at lynn@leaderconsulting.biz or through her blog at http://www.leaderconsulting.biz THE STOCKMAN | stockmanmag.com
April 2019
I interviewed in my past study mentioned their progression to leadership roles was natural. They began by showing an interest in the organization, breed, or a topic and most importantly they said, “we showed up”. I commend the younger generation for showing up, starting their progression of taking an active role, and realizing the impact industry organizations have on their businesses.
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