Change happens – you might as well use it. Regardless of the business or industry you work in, change is going to happen. The question that top farms are asking is: How can we turn change into an opportunity – and maybe even an advantage – for our farm? Finding the opportunity within a change situation can certainly feel easier in some scenarios than others. It’s human nature to recognize the potential threats or challenges first. Take the time to flip your mindset over to view the possibilities on the other side. When you’re facing what looks like a potentially major shift or change for your farm, start by listing any potential positive or beneficial outcomes of the change.

Work to anticipate change. It would be impossible and improbable to anticipate every change that’s going to potentially impact your farm. But it’s to your advantage as a farm leader to consider the biggest things that may come to bring change to your operation. Thinking ahead through potential scenarios – and how you might choose to respond to them – can help you when something happens. Even if it’s not exactly the situation you anticipated, the process of thinking it through carefully can be a great help. It can bring greater flexibility and adaptability to your problem-solving when the time comes.

Help others grow through each change. Change can be one of the greatest potential times for growth and advancement, both personally and professionally. Try to live out that message and help everyone on your farm see the truth in it as well. Encourage and challenge others to step up to the occasion, bring their creativity, and be open to try out new skills and ways of doing their jobs. Using change to bring your employees and family members increased personal development is an enormous opportunity that’s often overlooked or underutilized.