FARMSTRONG
Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock says instead of trying to do everything in a day, prioritise those jobs that can be achieved to help reduce stress levels.
Dealing with uncertainty Whether it’s the weather, border restrictions or changing regulations, dealing with uncertainty is a constant for many farmers and growers. Here are Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock’s tips for getting through tough times.
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the weather, the ref or pressure on the scoreboard. When I’m under pressure, I try to keep it simple and just concentrate on the things I’m good at and can control.”
Keep it simple “I think the best players I’ve seen at handling pressure are the ones who can just focus on doing the basics really well game after game, irrespective of
Prioritise “Work on a farm is never done, so it’s important to prioritise. Work out what you can and can’t do in a day and be okay with that. “Ask yourself ‘what are the top two or three tasks I need to do?’ and park everything else. Once you’re feeling back
am Whitelock comes from a farming background and will head back into farming once he hangs up his boots. As a professional athlete he’s also had plenty of experience at handling pressure and setbacks. Here are a few of his insights.
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in charge, your stress levels will go down.” Keep talking “Pressure is pressure whether you’re a grower, a farmer or a rugby player. I know from my own experience that talking through these challenges with mates and family helps enormously. “If you see someone struggling, start that conversation, ask them how they’re going and make time for a proper catch-up, whether it’s over a coffee or at the pub. You don’t have to have all the answers, just listening can be a huge
DAIRY FARMER
July 2021
