You may have heard this saying previously and wondered what it means or how it would apply to your dairy or everyday life. It's one I try to live by daily in all things, big and small, I sum it up with one word: Purpose. Not to say I don't miss goals I set for myself, or that I don't take a day of rest or that I am perfect, I'm completely human. But keeping this reminder in front of me is the only way I'll stay focused and disciplined to move in the right direction.
Last year for my first blog of the year I also wrote about goal setting, and maybe equally as important, reflecting on the prior year to get a snapshot of where you stand today. I highly encourage you to make this an annual practice before charging forward.
Focusing on the goal-oriented nature of Zig Ziglar's quote above, I compare the saying to trying to drive somewhere without a final destination or roadmap. You just set out driving with no purpose or destination. For my personality, I would typically consider that a giant waste of time. For your dairy, you might have the same reaction. You don't have to put up a new barn this year or even have the next 5 to 10 years planned out, but what will help is to take the next step in a direction that either increases your profits or your personal happiness. Another favorite saying of mine, "if it doesn't bring you joy or make you money, then why are you doing it?"
So take 10 minutes to make just one or two goals for 2015, it could be lowering your SCC, your cull rate, making more educated breeding decisions, or hiring someone part time to be able to attend your kids or grandkids sporting events. Make your goals realistic but not too easy. Stick your toe outside of your comfort zone. Be a "grateful I did", not "a wish I had" person this year. You can thank yourself later.
The author, Ali Enerson, is the special publications editor, responsible for books, plans, distribution of the e-newsletter and various internal communication pieces. She grew up on a 60-cow dairy in northwest Wisconsin, and is a graduate of University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in life sciences communications.
