A New Year of Goals and Growth

As the new year begins in 2026, people around the world reflect on the past year and set goals for the next one. Many focus on health, mental well-being, careers, relationships, education and personal growth. FFA members often include goals connected to their involvement in the organization.

Abigail Walters, who’s serving as president of the Franklin FFA Chapter in Indiana, believes the best FFA-centered goal is simple: Take the next big step in your FFA journey.

FFA offers endless opportunities for growth. Members shape their own experiences through the choices they make. The more effort and courage someone puts into FFA, the more they gain in return.

Discovering Her FFA Path

Walters’ FFA journey began halfway through her first year in an agriculture class. During eighth grade, her advisor encouraged her to compete in public speaking. Nervousness caused Walters to decline the opportunity. Her advisor did not give up.

Although Walters did not compete that year, her advisor spoke with her parents at the spring banquet. The idea of public speaking caught their attention. Walters’ parents wanted something that would push her out of her comfort zone.

During her freshman year, Walters became more involved in her FFA chapter. She competed in the public speaking competition and placed first. That success advanced her to the state level. Walters also ran for a chapter officer position and earned the role of sentinel. At that point, her journey had already grown beyond what she once imagined.

Taking Ownership Through Leadership

Walters recalls the moment she realized her FFA journey belonged to her. She began thinking about running for chapter president for the first time. Serving as sentinel helped her understand leadership. Running for president felt different.

This decision came from Walters alone. Neither her parents nor her advisors pushed her toward it. After earning the role of chapter president, her passion for FFA continued to grow. The responsibility strengthened her confidence and leadership skills.

Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone

One major opportunity came from Walters’ decision to expand her involvement. Her Supervised Agricultural Experience project focuses on hosting the Stock Show Stories podcast. At first, doubt filled her thoughts. She worried the project might fail. She did not know anyone else doing something similar.

Despite her fears, Walters chose to move forward. That choice paid off quickly. The podcast grew faster than she expected. Through the project, Walters interviewed influential leaders in the livestock industry and agricultural community.

Advice for the Year Ahead

Walters’ advice for FFA members remains simple: Just go for it.

As 2026 begins, she encourages members to pursue the opportunities that scare them. Run for the officer position you want. Try the research project you doubt will work. Enter the competition that makes you nervous.

Failure does not define these experiences. Every attempt leads to learning. Learning always leads to growth.