I smile knowingly as I read the farmer’s checklist, he wants to “avoid the mistakes farmers typically make” in succession planning. I don’t pretend to have the exhaustive list, but in eight years of coaching I have seen many scenarios that you don’t want to repeat.

What mistakes?

Poor self care. Your body is not a machine yet you ignore the things your body is telling you. Headaches and gut pains may be a signal that you are not dealing with conflict well, you continue to avoid the crucial conversations the younger generation is begging you for.

Poor marriage care. You’ve noticed that your spouse is a bit more distant lately, yet you just shrug it off and go out to the shop. She’s been showing you some house designs and real estate deals in town, but you are not the least bit interested in talking or considering moving off the home place. You’ve been here 42 years, so why move now? The big mistake here is that you really have no respect for your spouse’s needs and changing goals. Continue reading Avoid the Mistakes Farmers Typically Make »