What some may say is one of my biggest character flaws, others may argue is one of my greatest strengths: I take things personally.
Now, there is a fine line between being sensitive to criticism and being dedicated to a cause. I have been on both sides of this line. For years, I worried that taking things personally was a weakness. But I’ve realized there is a difference between protecting your ego and protecting your purpose. When you take your work personally, you aren’t just doing the work; you are attaching yourself to the outcome.
If you know me, it’s easy to see what matters to me because of how I show up. Taking things personally shows deep investment, vulnerability and engagement.
Work for the People You Love
Maybe that’s why I instantly felt connected to Patrick Fleming when I visited with him in the summer of 2024 after his return to the National Pork Board. I’ll never forget the passion in his voice when he spoke and the authenticity of his message. One of the comments he made before we hung up on our call struck a chord in me.
He said, “I’m working for the people who I truly love and respect the most. So, for me, this is personal.”
Working for the National Pork Board was not about money or fame or checking a box. It was about serving an industry he truly admired and cared about. It was personal.
I’ve thought a lot about his comment since that conversation and how important it is to take each day a little “personally.” We don’t get many second chances in life. How do we show up ready to soak in what each day has to offer?
He modeled that it starts with putting others first and chasing after your purpose. When we are motivated by something far bigger than ourselves, we show up differently.
Make it Personal
On Jan. 12, our industry lost a legend. Patrick Fleming passed away after a courageous battle with kidney cancer. The industry won’t be the same without him, but I know that it is forever better because of him.
Working for you – America’s pig farmers – was his dream job. A job he showed up every day to tackle with purpose and investment. A job that he took personally.
May we honor his legacy by showing up, digging in, and never doubting the power of making it personal. Let’s celebrate his life well-lived the best way we know how: by enjoying some delicious pork with the people we love.
