In thinking about businesses that require the leader to build flexibility into every aspect, farming might not come to mind immediately for most people. But if you’ve farmed for nearly any length of time, you know the truth that both flexible thinking and plans are truly necessary for the farm to “make it.”

Stuck to the plan

I see farm leaders taking a couple different approaches to flexibility. Much depends on their personality. Some farmers thrive on making plans and then carrying them out as best as possible. They do a great job planning in advance (another practice of the best farms) and staying on top of things.

A downfall can come if the leader is convinced that their exact plan will work out, even when it becomes clear that the circumstances are different than originally thought. They may not be willing to change tactics on the fly, even when it becomes clear they need to.

Lack of plans

Other farmers may take the approach of not really planning much at all. They might view the plans as less than useful because circumstances and conditions are always changing.

But they go beyond being flexible toward not having much of a direction at all – which can mean decisions are always made on the fly and often based solely on a “gut feeling.” That’s not always a bad thing – and it’s necessary sometimes – but when it becomes the status quo for decision-making in the operation, it’s time to try something different.

3 ideas

Between these two approaches is the concept of creating plans for the farm business with built-in flexibility, all the while cultivating a flexible mindset as a leader. Here are three ways to start building more flexibility into your business.

One area of the farm where farm leaders often say they like having a partner in making plans and building more flexibility is around the markets. Our market advisors assist farm leaders with marketing plans and execution. Get in touch with one now.