What are some of the symptoms of chronic stress that you need look for in yourself, friends, family or employees? Watch for social withdrawal, daily use of drugs/alcohol, agitated body language, change in sleeping patterns, racing heart, headaches, not eating, loneliness, always being tired, change in farm or vet clinic appearance, and constant overwhelm. 

There are solutions that can help farmers avoid medical debt. From negotiation to financial assistance, there are options, but where do you begin?

There are many overlapping systems in play on a family farm. Your family circle is your nuclear family which relates to your parents or in-laws, and your siblings, who may also be business partners or farm heirs.

Farm succession planning is a critical topic that often gets brushed under the rug due to a variety of emotional and practical reasons. Families and farmowners may avoid discussing succession because of deeply rooted values, fear of mortality and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.

Twenty-five years ago, I would have told you that topics like self confidence and insecurities were a bunch of fluff. However, I’ve been through a lot and can tell you that it is the soft issues that become hard problems in farming.

Many business leaders and managers complain that they can teach new employees how to do all the tasks required for the job, but too often prospective employees lack the character and attitude necessary to fit their company culture.