As we get older, it is easy to look back and think about things we wish we had known in our late teens and early 20s. Lexi Marek Beeler, the owner of LMB Consulting, put herself in the seats of the attendees at Showpig.com’s All-Star Camp and shared five things future leaders should know to become a leader in agriculture. Lexi started sharing her passion for agriculture on social media many years as a show pig exhibitor and she has continued to use her communication skills to pave a diverse career in agriculture. Her experience includes roles at a start-up business, a government agency, a corporate company, and now as an entrepreneur. Read below for an overview of what Lexi shared at All-Star Camp.   

 1. Your Network is Your Biggest Asset  

One of the most valuable things about showing livestock is the opportunity to develop an extensive network. It is comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds who generally are high achievers, competitive by nature, and embody a work ethic that is becoming a rarity in today’s world. The people you show against may one day be your best friend, future colleague, or business partner. Take advantage of the time you have in the ring to grow and expand your network outside of the ring. Simple actions can be taken to build a strong network. For example, introduce yourself to people you look up to, ask questions, and be curious. Take the time to get to know the breeders of the pigs you show, get to know your show friends' parents, and ask them about their careers and any advice they are willing to give.  

If your goal is to build a network, remember that it works both ways. Always be willing to lend a helping hand, answer questions, offer advice when asked, or respond to a text. A relationship is a two-way street.   

2. Work for People You Can Learn From  

As livestock kids, you are used to pushing yourselves to be the best but intentionally surrounding yourself with people better than you can be intimidating. You will always better yourself if you’re able to surround yourself with people who you can learn from. This will force you to get outside of your comfort zone, think outside the box, and will allow you to grow not only professionally, but personally as well.  

3. Marry the Right Person  

Who you choose to spend your life with will affect every other aspect of your life. It will affect where you live, your family and friends, your hobbies, and your career. As a young person, it can be discouraging to find the right person but remember, don’t give up. Your spouse will become the person who respectfully challenges you because they know what you’re capable of, is your biggest cheerleader, is your protector when things get tough, and cares most about your physical and mental well-being. It is vitally important that you choose the right person to be by your side through all aspects of your life.  

4. It is Okay NOT to Know What To Do  

Contrary to popular belief, you do NOT have to have it all figured out when you graduate high school or even when you graduate from college. Most people are in a career and are still searching for their dream job. You do not have to know exactly what your purpose in this world is at 18 years old. Spend your college years learning about yourself and exploring what you like and maybe more importantly, what you DON’T like. Explore internships that you know nothing about, join clubs on campus, go on trips and have the time of your life while learning who you are and what you want to do. The most important thing is to breathe, knowing that you have time to figure it all out.  

5. Develop a Voice For Yourself  

You are the biggest advertisement for yourself. It’s important to understand that you are unique and are the only person that has your skillset, dreams, and talents. The biggest disservice you can do to yourself is to try to be someone you are not.

Remember: Your voice + Your vision + Your visuals = Your Brand.

You are your brand. Your brand consists of the things that make you unique. Develop who you are and what you stand for. Narrow what defines you to five things. They don’t have to be professionally related. If you are passionate about traveling, food, art, livestock, your faith, a particular sport or team - make those part of your 5 things and then share your experiences with others in person and on social media. Once you learn who you are, stay true to yourself and your brand. As you grow, you will learn and evolve and so will your brand. THAT IS OKAY. We are made to learn, grow, evolve, and change as we meet new people and experience new things.  

No matter where you come from, how big of a name you have or don’t have, or how good of stock you showed, these are pieces of advice that you can take with you as you go to college and ultimately as you start looking at careers. Discover who you are, connect with people, work hard, and always be authentic to yourself.