How can farming people stay positive?
We all know that farming is often demanding and stressful. When things go wrong, or mistakes happen, it can be easy for negative thoughts to take over. To help you stay positive during tough times on the farm, here are some helpful tips from some recognisable farming faces.
Gareth Wyn-Jones, Gwynedd – “There’s always a solution”
Star of BBC One’s ‘The Family Farm’ programme, Gareth is a passionate mental health ambassador and wants to reassure fellow farmers that a problem shared is a problem halved.
“It’s always good to talk about your problems. For me, that happens down the pub with mates, in the mart over a cup of tea, with my wife or other family and friends. There’s always someone out there who can help.
I like to take time out with my dog on the mountain as well – it gives me time to digest problems and consider solutions.”
Watch Gareth’s video of top tips
Joe Stanley, Leicestershire – “Do what’s right for you”
Joe is a well-known arable farmer, as well as Farmers Weekly columnist, and ‘Farm to Fork’ author. He shares this personal tip for maintaining a positive outlook on life.
“Make time to do what makes you happy. You can spend so much time trying to please other people, that you can find life is passing you by. Really think about what you want to achieve, and what you enjoy doing, and go after that.”
Abi Reader, Glamorganshire – “Reflect on your achievements”
A third-generation farmer from South Wales, Abi sits on the NFU National Dairy Board and was named Farmers Weekly ‘Farming Champion of the Year’ this year for her tireless work to promote British agriculture. Here is Abi’s advice for staying positive even on difficult days.
“If you’ve had a hard day and you’re worried about what’s coming tomorrow or next week, just take a little time to appreciate what you’ve created and all you should be proud of.
When things quieten down in the evening, I like to spend some time around my livestock. It’s a chance to forget everything just for a few minutes and the cows never fail to make me smile.”
Karl Franklin, Oxfordshire – “Appreciate the little things”
NFU student ambassador and sheep farmer Karl is passionate about sharing the ups and downs of daily farming life on his Instagram page, @the_pretend_farmer. Despite the bumps in the road, Karl believes it’s really important to focus on the good things that happen on the farm.
“I always try to find one positive thing from each day – even on the worst days when the weather is awful. It could be as simple as appreciating the beautiful countryside we work and live in.
Another thing that works for me is having a sing song. I find a good karaoke session in my truck helps to cure a bad mood!”
Watch Karl’s video of top tips
Support for farming people
Remember, if you would like to talk about any problems you’re facing, there is always help available.