Farming has always come with its challenges, and 2026 is no exception. Markets feel unpredictable, input costs continue to creep up, and it feels like there is almost no room for error. In times like these, everyone looks to the person in charge to keep the operation steady and moving forward.
Steven Armstrong, author of “You Can’t Lead From Behind,” says the way leaders handle themselves on the farm and at home sets the tone for everyone around them.
“If you are a leader, you are responsible for navigating challenging times as your conduct impacts not only those in your personal life but also your employees,” Armstrong says.
During a tough season, Armstrong reminds leaders that staying levelheaded, focused and present can help your operation and your employees get through a hard stretch.
Lead Yourself First
Before leaders can take care of anyone else, they have to take care of themselves. Armstrong believes that how a leader shows up day to day matters, especially when stress is running high.
“Your employees deserve better than you being an ass,” Armstrong says.
He advises leaders to keep an eye on their own stress and stay grounded. Tough market outlooks and rising costs can spark anxiety, but that doesn’t mean you have to let it take over how you manage your operation.
“Nothing is gained from adding stress and anxiety to the situation,” he adds.
For Armstrong, taking care of yourself does not mean stepping away from responsibility. It’s about making sure you are in the right headspace to lead well. That includes paying attention to basic habits that are often the first to slide when pressure builds.
“Eat well, exercise and carve out some ‘you time’ — this is not a selfish notion,” he notes. “It will help to ensure that your decision-making remains sound.”
And while tough stretches can feel like there is no end in sight, Armstrong reminds leaders that hard times don’t last forever. Even when the timeline is unclear, keeping a longer view can help steady both perspective and morale.
“Know that it will end,” he adds. “Raise your chin just a bit, look out further and remind yourself that time will move on and things will improve.”
Leading Your Family
Leadership doesn’t stop when you pull off your work boots at the end of the day. During challenging times, the stress of running the farm often flows into home life, and family members feel it too. How you manage that pressure sets the tone not just for your team but for everyone who depends on you.
“Don’t get too caught up in the business of it all,” Armstrong cautions. “Your kids need to see a parental role model who projects strength and calmness. Your significant other needs a full partner.”
Presence, he explains, is more than just being physically there. It means showing up in a way that people notice and feel.
“You don’t need to have all the answers,” he says. “You need to be there, not just in body, but fully present with your heart, mind and ears.”
He also talks about the power of sticking together. Leaning on your family or your team, talking things through and sharing the load can make the tough days a lot easier and help everyone feel more supported.
“We can often draw great strength from our family and friends, and we should openly turn to them at times of stress,” he adds.
Leading Your Operation
Even with tight markets and negative financial forecasts, Armstrong says tough times can create opportunities. Challenges on the farm can show where improvements are possible and where leaders can step up.
“Adversity sometimes gives us the kick in the rear needed to make changes we should have made long ago,” he says.
Uncertain times can also shed light on how farm employees handle challenges. It’s a chance to see who steps up, who is dependable and who might need some extra guidance.
“Make sure to note those staff members who show up ready to help when you need it most,” Armstrong says. “These moments give you a chance to see who your real stars are, the people you want to invest in and rely on for the long haul.”
How you treat your employees during tough times can stick with them long after the season passes. The way you handle stress, talk through problems and show up every day sets the tone for the whole farm. Armstrong reminds leaders to keep that in mind.
“You are on stage right now. Your employees are watching how you respond,” he reminds leaders. “Thoughtful acts of kindness and understanding will be magnified and remembered, so act accordingly.”
Staying Grounded
The way you show up during tough times will be remembered long after the stress passes. Staying calm and present helps the farm keep moving and gives your team the confidence to get through the hard stretches with you.
“How you show up matters more than the challenges themselves,” Armstrong says. “When you stay calm and focused, your team notices, and it makes getting through the rough patches a lot easier for everyone.”
Worry can spread quickly, especially when conditions are uncertain or margins are tight. Leaders need to focus on staying calm, clear and consistent. How you respond in those moments sets the tone for everyone around you, from your employees to your family, and can make the difference between a team that feels supported and one that feels uncertain.
