Getting Outside Your Comfort Zone

Cassie Moody

Idaho FFA Treasurer

If there is one thing I’ve learned in FFA, it is that this organization is full of meaningful, life changing opportunities. From conferences, camps, industry tours, and so much more, there really is an opportunity for everyone in FFA. However, in order to get the most from these opportunities, you must be willing to leave your comfort zone and take risks.

On one occasion in my FFA career, I remember feeling far outside my comfort zone. It was the summer after my sophomore year and I had received a scholarship to attend the Washington Leadership Conference. I was so excited about the opportunity, but somewhat worried about attending alone. After a day of travel with my advisor, we finally arrived at the hotel where the conference was held. I distinctly remember my advisor helping me check into the conference and then saying “Alright have fun, kid. Text me if you need anything.” That was when the real panic set in. I was all by myself at a conference with no one else I knew, and there were no other members from Idaho. I was terrified that I would be alone all week, but I quickly realized that would not be the case. 

As soon as I got to my room, I was greeted by my roommates from Iowa and Kansas who were incredibly kind and inviting. We did everything together that week and quickly became great friends. Additionally, I learned so much about what it meant to be a servant leader and that the blue jacket truly unites us all. Looking back, WLC was one of the best experiences of my FFA career. I am so grateful that I took that opportunity because it made me realize that I am capable of doing things that are outside my comfort zone. 

I am so grateful that I took that opportunity because it made me realize that I am capable of doing things that are outside my comfort zone. 

Another experience that took me far outside of my comfort zone was joining the Nursery Landscape team. I was hesitant to join this team because I knew nothing about plants, blueprint math, or the landscape industry. However, my advisor encouraged me to join so I decided I would give it a try. When we first began practices, I was convinced I would never be successful in this CDE. Identifying plants and blueprint math was even more challenging than I had expected. There were several times I wanted to give up, but I am so thankful that I didn’t. My team and I went on to win the State competition that year and got to compete at Nationals. Through this experience, my team became more like a family. We had an amazing time traveling to Chicago and Indianapolis for Nationals, and made so many memories. I am so grateful that I took the risk of joining this team because it was such a rewarding experience. 

My advice to every FFA member is to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way! This organization has so much to offer and you never know where you will make memories and connections that last a lifetime. Take risks, take action, and soak up every moment of your time in FFA. 

-Cassie, thank you for sharing how stepping outside our comfort zone can lead to growth, learning and friendships! Best of luck in the rest of your year as State Treasurer!