In recent years I've closely followed the work of Ben Crowe, a mindset coach best known for his work with Ash Barty.
He talks a lot about finding your purpose and focusing on your 'Why'.
When I'm asked what I'm studying the next question is often, "So you're off a farm then?".
I find it interesting the only reason you would be expected to pursue a career in agriculture is as someone coming from the land originally.
I can't imagine people would ask the equivalent question for other professions.
Simon Sinek is another thought leader around similar topics who has developed a model for how leaders can empower action for success within businesses, which he's termed 'The Golden Circle'.
In the circle there are three rings with the innermost ring, which represents the first question you must ask yourself when making a decision, depicting the word 'Why'.
This has got me thinking about what my 'Why' is as an Agricultural Science student. Why did I choose this pathway?
I recently was fortunate to hear the first-year representative speeches for the Adelaide University Agricultural Students Association committee where one of the applicants spoke about agriculture not being an industry but a community.
I think growing up in this community is something I value and appreciating what that offers is what gives me purpose.
It motivates me to pursue an education that allows me to give back to this community.
I have begun my second year of study and the sense of community among students and their lecturers is markedly stronger at the Waite and Roseworthy campuses where the majority of students are involved in the agricultural industry.
This makes the learning environment much more vibrant.
Sinek believes most businesses don't know their why and believes it shouldn't be about making money, but more about why your organisation exists.
I would challenge a lot of producers to think about this.
Why do we do what we do?
In his 'Golden Circle', the middle ring has the term 'How'.
For me my how is through education. Pursuing a tertiary education is a big commitment that requires an investment of time and money.
I think that because I know my 'Why', it's easy to find the motivation to continue to pursue my education. I feel privileged to have the opportunity.
I think producers can apply similar thinking to their own business.
Challenge your 'Why' and your 'How'.
Do you farm because your parents farmed? Are you still doing things the way you parents did them?
I've recently read Yvon Chouinard's book Let my People go Surfing, about his outdoor recreation company Patagonia.
Chouinard's company is a purpose-driven brand that is built on action.
Their 'Why' - which they're very open about - is to "Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and to use business to inspire and implement solutions to the climate crisis".
As farmers we could follow a similar theme to produce high quality food sustainably.
The final ring represents 'What'.
Businesses usually know 'What' they do. The products they sell or the services that they offer.
I don't know what I want to do once I finish my degree, but I do know that there will be many opportunities available to me.
I know why I'm doing what I'm doing so I trust that the rest will work itself out with the support of the agricultural community around me.
