Talking about your feelings helps

Work hard and earn money. That is the credo of many agricultural entrepreneurs. At first glance there is nothing wrong with that, because money has to be earned to pay the bills and support the family. And yes, if you can, you also want to invest, because standing still means deterioration and that tractor/machine really needs to be replaced.

However, what do you do when you find out that hard work doesn't always pay off? What do you do when you get stuck between thinking and doing, effort and relaxation? A large number of entrepreneurs experience increased psychological pressure and have questions about the future. Companies are getting bigger, and with that the interests and risks are also increasing. The government imposes strict rules, prices are under pressure and society also has an opinion about your company and your sector. And you have to deal with all of that.

Ups and downs
A farmer is also just a human being, isn't it? You have highs and lows, feelings and ideals, disappointments and victories. Yet many agricultural entrepreneurs find it difficult to talk; let alone feelings. "It doesn't get anywhere," I often hear. But I don't agree.

As a human being you have emotions, you cannot ignore them. And those emotions, they have to get out of your body from time to time. They have an important function, namely to discharge on an emotional level. If you don't act on your feelings from time to time, things won't go well in the long run. You might get stuck, sleep poorly, worry, or even get sick. Having a good conversation on a regular basis can help to give space to these emotions and feelings.

Continue to ask questions
What bothers you, what do you run into, what makes you sleep badly, and what do you want to get rid of? Often an outsider can ask just a little better or further than someone close by. Sometimes shame or the fear of sadness/anger plays a blocking role. Sometimes we are afraid of the opinion of others. Sometimes we say to ourselves, "I don't need that, do I?"

Day-to-day practice shows that many farmers I speak with as a coach are happy with the conversations. This can be about what they encounter in life, but also about how to proceed with the company. A listening ear, a sounding board, a mirror. It doesn't matter what you call it. Do you have one?

Talking helps, that's for sure!

fat cattle child

Dik Veefkind is an agricultural coach and mediator at AgroCoach. In his blogs he focuses on the psychological challenges of the farmer, such as burnouts and business conflicts. He also supports people entering the grounds in difficult situations.