Conflict is not bad. Unresolved conflict is hurtful, frustrating and diverts good management energy toward drama. It is time for new tools.

As mom to a young successor and wife to a very ambitious, determined, successful seed grower who is wired to get tasks done, I’m seeing firsthand how it can be an interesting journey to graciously let go of control and mentor the next manager of your farm business.

Find a lawyer you like. Ask other farmers which professionals have served them well. You can also go to the Canadian Association of Farm Advisors directory to find great advisers who care about agricultural families.

“Help, my siblings want farmland!” is one of my most viewed blogs. Our current reality of higher interest rates and rising land values needs to be addressed early on in your transition conversations.

Farm founders need to let go of being the ultimate decision-maker as they mentor the next generation to be the main farm manager. This is not an easy dance. You need to learn to let go of being in control of every part, however small the enterprise or activity – that is the definition of micromanaging.

I have seen many farm women live out giving and serving the needs of their families over seasons of hard times and good times. The issue I want to address is: What if? What if you have a difficult mother who is stalling decision making for transferring assets to the next generation?

Remember, it is your farm, your family and your choice. Make great choices for family time.

When you can respond to conflict by trying to put yourself in the other person’s position and understand the other person’s point of view, you will have many insights.