You are more important than your work. Your life matters more than your balance sheet. And your legacy won’t be determined by your ability to keep your multi-generational farm or ranch, but by the lives you touch. I understand you likely think you were created as a farmer, but you were created as a human first.

These are essential facts to remember as agriculture faces unprecedented times with low exports, unstable markets, irregular policy, high inputs, and price gouging. Spring is typically a time of hope and joy in planting, but 2026 feels different.

Putting seeds in the ground is one of the greatest acts of faith there is, but your faith may be a little shaken with fertilizer, diesel, chemical, and fuel costs sky rocketing – forcing a change in practices this year. Diseases have wreaked havoc within animal agriculture. Mother Nature has wielded a heavy hand between frosts in the deep south, fires in the plains, floods out west, blizzards up north, and drought in many places – all out of our control. It will be O.K.

All of this means that you have chronic stress. A LOT of stress – and that is normal. It doesn’t make it easier, but know you are not alone in dealing with stress. This leaves your brain with cortisol flowing. Consider stressed out animals or crops – we do something about it rather than letting it languish. The same is true with you.

First, if you have considered harming yourself or know someone in that situation – dial or text 988 for professional help. Again, your life matters a lot more than your balance sheet. Get help – it is a sign of strength, not weakness. Find resources here.

Last week I learned a 21 year-old dairy farmer died by suicide, which led me to write this as a reminder to farmers and ranchers everywhere to treat yourself like you would an animal under stress. A key is managing your own cortisol, which can shrink your brain and affect future generation’s ability to handle stress. Getting sleep is first on the list – and if you’re not sleeping at least 6 hours/night, please talk to your doctor – it really is that important to your emotional well-being and ability to make business decisions.

Did you know intentional exercise for at least 20 minutes will drop your cortisol – and introduce happy hormones? Intentional does not me checking cattle – it means focusing on exercising your body. Eating lots of color (AKA fruits and veggies) and fiber can also help your brain and body better manage stress, while protein is essential to the neural pathways in your brain – Doritos are not.

Your social circles provide support in talking about stressors, but also serve as chance to get away from the farm or ranch.You cannot go this alone. Taking a break away from your business is essential to gaining perspective – and the business can run without you for a few hours. It’s more important to care for yourself. Here’s a few more tips if you need them.

The people producing our food need to remember the humans in agriculture are our first priority. We do honorable work with some of the best in the world – and need to focus on our “why” in tough times. Your life is more important than your work, your family needs you, and you matter to your community. You will make it through these tough times. If you doubt any of those, please talk about it ASAP with a friend, clergy member, or professional.

Let’s sow hope this spring, not bury more farmers.

Please pass this on to someone who needs to be reminded: your life matters more than your business.