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FROM THE EDITOR
January 5, 2009
A new year
The start of the new year always gives me hope. It is like a new beginning-a chance to make some changes in my life. It doesn't matter what happened in 2008 or 2007 or any time before that. What matters is what I make of 2009. I can choose to go along the same old way. Or I can choose to make my life better.
Some years, I do pretty well. Others... well, like I said, it doesn't matter what happened back then. This year, I've got a pretty good list of resolutions. Some are the same as last year's. (Give me a break--at least I'm still trying!)
As an agriculture industry, I think we all could set resolutions for our farms and ranches, as well as an industry as a whole.
1. Try something new. Perhaps trying something new means simply buying a new bull for the cowherd. Or maybe it means taking the plunge into no-till farming. But make the commitment to do something you've wanted to do, but just haven't had the time or fortitude to do.
2. Develop a solid, disciplined marketing plan. With the markets of 2008 fresh in our minds, we know we can't afford to miss an opportunity to sell our product at a profit. If that means hiring someone to help you pull the trigger, then do it.
3. Prioritize farm succession. Each and every farm should have a plan--even if the head of the farm is 30 years old and only farms a quarter section. Plan so that you know what will happen to the farm and someone else doesn't decide for you, after you are gone.
4. Incorporate a new technology. Innovation in the agriculture industry is nonstop. Make it a priority this year to research a new technology that will be of benefit to your farm.
5. Be a voice for agriculture. Find just one way, this year, to share your farm with a non-agriculture audience. Invite a school classroom out for a tour. Stop and answer questions about meat cuts to the person standing in front of the meat counter with a puzzled look on her face. Write a letter to the local paper about an agriculture issue.
Forgive me if these resolutions sound preachy, but that's the nature of a resolution--setting a lofty goal and hoping by doing so, you can at least get part of the way there. And many of you have already accomplished these goals. If so, congratulations. You're one step ahead of the rest of us.
Regardless of whether you use these resolutions, or add a few of your own, take a few minutes to pause and think about what you want for your business in the coming year. Doing so might just help you achieve your goals.
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