Leading a farm can feel like a juggling act – especially heading into a busy season like planting. The farm leader knows there will be a lot of balls in the air during that time. You want to stay focused so nothing gets dropped.

It can be easy to start feeling overwhelmed during a busy season. When the farm leader is very involved in the day-to-day action, they might even start to lose touch with the bigger picture of the operation.

Finalizing plans, directing employees, solving problems, making sure things get done right, and much more – it’s all in a day’s work for the farm’s leader.

In a row crop operation, when the weather for planting is just right, it’s full steam ahead. But the leader of the operation has an additional role – steering the farm business. Otherwise, the farm can start to veer off track and away from the leader’s vision for the future.

Be intentional

The leaders of the operation may have taken time this winter to work on business planning. They may have discussed their vision for the future and laid out goals for the farm business.

That planning time is very important. But what’s even more important is that the plan is kept in view – even during busy times. Business tasks like reviewing and updating the farm’s financials may not be urgent issues, but are important so the business stays on track and good decisions are made.

What can make the difference is setting aside time to intentionally work on your farm’s business. It doesn’t have to be a lot of time, but it does need to be scheduled so you make sure it happens.

Pre-planting plan

Before your operation gets into full-on planting season mode, set aside some time to create your game plan. Get your pre-season plan ready. Finalize your crop plans. Consider how you’ll manage the work through your employees. What systems and processes can you put in place to ensure a smooth planting season?

Next, take time to plan how you’ll keep in touch with the business side of your operation. You might plan to involve landlords – or potential landlords – who are interested in riding along with you or with an employee. Plan a couple phone calls to check in with your banker and other farm business advisors you work with.

Pencil in a couple hours to check on your farm’s financials and ensure they’re updated. Having a plan will help you take action to keep your business on track once things get really busy in the field.

Get more ideas on farm business leadership and management in our Smart Series publication, bringing business ideas for today’s farm leader. Learn more about staying closely in touch with the business side of your operation at www.waterstreet.org.

The opinions of the author are not necessarily those of Farm Futures or Penton Agriculture.