Even Farmers Need a Break: Plan for a Absence on the Farm

It doesn't take long for a farmer to realize that no two days are the same. The longer you farm, the better you become at dealing with the unexpected. Fix a broken machine? Done. Deal with an ailing animal? Check. But would things run as smoothly if you weren't around for a day? A week?

Occasionally, we all have emergencies or situations that derail our plans. It could be something as simple as bad weather, a doctor's appointment, or something more serious like an accident. And when was the last time you took a stress-free vacation? Many farmers forgo vacations altogether because they're certain their farm couldn't operate without them.

The bottom line is this: Whether you plan for it or not, there will be times when you need to be away from the farm. So, ask yourself: How comfortable would you be if you had to hand off your responsibilities for a while?

If you are the kind of person who has already prepared for this, then congratulations. But if you are like many farmers, you may need a bit of support. This article can help.

The first step is to accept that you might have to step away; this is less likely an "if" and more of a "when." The second step is to recognize that you will have to devote some time to the preparation process. However, a little work upfront on your part can free you from worry when the time comes. Unsure how to begin? Here are some strategies:

• Create a yearly calendar of your typical responsibilities. A calendar helps to clearly state what jobs and chores need to happen and when. Here, you can provide timelines for the best times to plant, when to buy seed, and when to sell your harvests/commodities.
• Create to-do lists. Think of things that someone inheriting your daily tasks should know. You might consider creating several lists—for example, daily, weekly, and monthly lists—so that you can be assured your business continues to run in your absence. Remember to create lists that a more novice helper will understand. Use language and descriptions that are easy to follow. You might even consider taking photos or drawing diagrams to help them better understand the task.
• Make copies and post them. You may wish to keep all of them together in a centralized location, but you should also place a copy of each task in its most logical location. For instance, the list of functions regarding milking should be in the milking parlor, and lists regarding combine maintenance should be with the combine.
• As with your to-do lists, keep equipment manuals in a designated location. This allows anyone to quickly review an operator's manual for manufacturer details and instructions.
• Spread the word. Let others know you've created these calendars and to-do lists. It is essential to have other people be aware of where the lists are and to know what their responsibilities are in the event that you are away from the helm for a time.
• Designate a person to be in charge. In your absence, you will need to have someone put your plan into action. How do you find someone you trust to help when you're not around? Talk with family members and other farm neighbors, or advertise for hired help. If you decide to interview someone to help around the farm or business, ask questions about the most important things for you.
• Once you have determined who can help when you're away, don't forget to train them to use your calendar(s) and to-do lists. You may even ask them to shadow you if there is a particularly complex task on your list.

Creating a support system is as important as having the right equipment and tools to get the job done. When you prepare ahead of time for your absence, you relieve stress, frustration, and confusion for you and for others who offer to help. In their article titled "Coping Tips for Traumatic Events and Disasters," the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2023) states that coping strategies like preparation and identifying support systems are recognized as healthier ways to cope when disruptions like appointments, inclement weather, or emergencies arise.

While it does take planning and preparation to create procedures and document your recurring tasks, you can be assured that when that family vacation arrives, health appointments are scheduled, or natural disaster strikes, others are ready to assist you and can keep the farm and business running smoothly. Farm stress is real, so proactive thinking is essential.

Source

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023, April 24). Coping tips for traumatic events and disasters.