Executive Director’s Message
We are about to finish another year and, by and large, it has been a good one. Housing starts have been above projections and the demand for turfgrass has been good. I hope you have taken advantage of the demand and have overcome the increased costs of diesel, fertilizer and other expenses. May you enjoy the season.
As we look forward to 2006, there is hope that we can continue to grow as an association of turfgrass producers. I hope you will look over the conference schedule and find something that will be helpful to you and cause you to want to attend. We have made an effort to beef up the program this year with topics that will be useful to all producers.
However, we know that no matter how many experts we bring in and how good their presentations are, often the most useful sessions are those you spend with other producers and our exhibitors. We are expecting a good turnout and a good time. Be sure to let us know if you are planning to attend and how many you will be bringing with you. If we don’t have enough food, chairs, etc., you are going to be upset and I wouldn’t blame you. But if we don’t know you are coming, it is hard to prepare.
Have you taken the time to set goals for 2006? Have you written them down? It is important that you do and now is a good time to do them. Maybe they deal with specific things like plowing up a field that is not making you money and improving it so that it does. Maybe it is to increase your price by X percent. It could be to do a better job of communicating with your clients. Whatever the goal write it down and post it where you see it every day. Tell someone, whether your spouse or foreman or a friend. That way you will have to account to someone and you will be more likely to accomplish your goals.
Everyone will have different goals for their particular operation but I hope you will include some personal ones as well. If you need a little help, here are some suggestions:
Take time for family. What are you working so hard for? Most people would say to provide for their family. But if you don’t watch out, you can spend so much time making money that you won’t have time for your family. The kids grow up and are gone before you know it. Enjoy them while you can by spending time with them.
Take time for yourself. Life is too short to not take time to enjoy what makes you happy. If necessary, mark out some dates on your calendar to kick back and relax. Studies have shown that taking some time off can actually improve your business. Get away from it for a while.
Take time to learn. Times are changing rapidly. Technology is mushrooming and it seems impossible to stay up with it. Plan time to read, surf the internet and spend time with other producers (such as the TPT annual conference).
Take time to grow spiritually. There is a reason for the season.
Merry Christmas.