Saying Yes, Staying Curious, and Soaking in the Journey

During the month of December, our team has the opportunity to travel across Indiana and meet with businesses and leaders who help fuel our agriculture industry. Each visit looks a little different from different buildings, different jobs, different missions. However, the lessons they have shared so far all have something in common: growth happens when you say yes, stay curious, and choose to never stop learning.

From the moment we stepped into our first meeting, one message kept coming back to me. No matter how large the company was, every leader talked about people first. Throughout our visits, I have been reminded that agriculture is built by communities, strengthened by relationships, and carried forward by those who are willing to step up and serve. Whether it was encouraging us to “build the bench” for the next generation, take care of others, or lift the communities we’re a part of, it has become clear that leadership always starts with people. 

I also keep hearing about the importance of saying yes, even when the opportunity feels big or uncomfortable. Many of the leaders we’ve sat down with shared that their careers started because they applied for an internship they weren’t sure about, took a chance on something new, or stepped outside their comfort zone. Their advice has stuck with me: if you want to grow, you have to be willing to try. 

Across every visit, one theme keeps returning: never stop learning, no matter where you are in life. Whether it’s understanding business, asking good questions, traveling, building your network, showing your personality, paying attention, or being open to change, these habits shape who you become. The people we meet aren’t successful because they have everything figured out. They are successful because they choose to keep learning every day. 

One of my favorite parts of this month has been traveling with our Indiana FFA Foundation Director, Mrs. Chaudion. Her stories, experience, and leadership add so much to each visit. She continually reminds us that even after your year in the jacket ends, your impact and your learning don’t have to.

So here’s my challenge to you:
Say yes. Ask questions. Build your network.
Your future's so much brighter than you think.

Always striving,

Calvin Myers

2025–2026 Indiana FFA State Southern Region Vice President