Finding New Information
This is a busy time for farmers. Tilling, planting, putting up hay, harvesting small grains, and getting ready for double crop soybeans, while constantly fighting the weather. The list just seems endless. Farmers just cannot seem to get everything done this time of year. Therefore, it may sound foolish to suggest that they should take some time to make sure that they "recharge themselves!"
The typical functions of a manager are to diagnose problems, analyze data and information, make decisions, take action, and bear responsibility for the results of the decisions made. Another integral part of the manager's responsibilities is that of gathering new information. A farm manager should use this break, being suggesting, for gathering new information for his farm business. Getting information and new ideas is an important part of the farm business manager's responsibilities!
I realize that the slower time next winter may seem better than right now, but you are missing one of the greatest advantages of gathering new information this time of year. You can actually see the new ideas in action this time of year. There are many opportunities to participate in Field Days, Demonstrations, County Fairs, and other similar events. Participating in these activities gives you the opportunity to actually see what other producers are doing. It should be much better than reading about it next winter. Further, you have the opportunity to question those folks directly involved in the development and direct application of the new ideas.
In addition to the opportunity to learn about new ways of doing things, you can also learn about new things to do. There is a tremendous amount of interest in new enterprises and products as well as new ways of producing and marketing both the old and new products. Taking a small amount of time to investigate these new changes and gather new information about them should prove quite beneficial in the future.
The time away from the business should also provide benefits in the very short run. You should return to the "old grind" with new enthusiasm and energy. "Recharging" your batteries with this short break should improve your abilities as a business manager. That seems like a real good reason to make an effort to gather new information at this terribly busy time of year.
For More Information
For additional information, please contact, Richard Trimble.