Farm stress: You can’t weigh it, you can’t test it, and you certainly can’t fix it with a wrench or baling twine. Yet, research continues to show that it directly impacts how farms function.

It’s no surprise that weather-related anxiety is common among farmers. When your livelihood is directly tied to conditions beyond your control, it’s natural to feel stress, frustration or even fear. But there are ways to cope – mentally, emotionally and practically – so that the unknowns of the season don’t take a toll on your well-being.

Prioritizing efficiency and productivity has never been more essential. Mindset is not the first thing that comes to mind for many farmers when they think about how to improve these things, but it should be. Maintaining your energy levels, prioritizing important tasks and creating a system for accomplishing goals that works for you are three ways to fine-tune your mindset and develop a more positive outlook.