The Art of Juggling

The Art of Juggling

In life, being able to multitask is a valuable skill, no matter who you are. For some, it comes easier than others. I was blessed with a mother who is a master of juggling professional and personal responsibilities. Now, as a mother myself, I often wonder how she could get everything done in the time she had available, but she always did.

My mother is an expert at making lists to prioritize and remember to-do items. Luckily, I’ve inherited this skill and always have multiple lists going. From groceries to household tasks, kids’ activities and needed supplies, work responsibilities and more, staying organized with list-making has been essential for me to keep commitments and all the “balls” being juggled in the air.

When I think of others who are proficient in the art of multitasking, farmers are at the top of the list. Farmers not only plant crops, raise livestock and manage their family business, but they also maintain machinery, pick out seed and fertilizer, manage farm crews, market their products and so much more.

Family values are core to farmers, as many Iowa farms have been passed down from generation to generation. To set aside time to spend with spouses, children and grandchildren, farmers are always looking for efficiencies they can implement to complete tasks faster and better.

In this issue, you’ll meet a young farmer who is also a full-time working mother, a family who ranches together and has a strong commitment to the environment, and another young family whose love of agri-tourism and continuous learning led them to owning a thriving apple orchard.

I think we can all take away a piece of knowledge from farmers and the hardworking, never-give-up attitude they display. Balance in life is essential. I have found that working in a fulfilling career while prioritizing family and personal time is a challenging juggling act, but it’s so worth it.

Enjoy the issue,

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