Do you dream of getting up each morning to look out across your fields of self-sown vegetables? Do you want to be a land buyer? Or listen to your rooster crow as the livestock grazes lazily in the field? Does your heart yearn for a bit of hard work that requires getting your hands dirty? If this sounds like a bit of heaven, then you may have a true calling as a farmer. Before you take out a loan to buy your first few acres of land, consider that to be a successful farmer you must also have a head for business, understand how to plant crops, cared for and rotate them, and how livestock should be properly cared for during all seasons.
Farming is truly a lost vocation
Farming requires much more business sense than many people consider. This is not to turn people against farming as it is a necessary profession that keeps fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat available for all. However, farming is about much more than owning land, feeding chickens, and planting corn. Farmers must be hard working physically, strong leaders for those who work the farm, and well versed in the world of finance to secure the basics of land, crops, and livestock. In addition, a potential farmer must have a vision. A farm is much more than a home; it is a business.
What it Takes to be a Farmer
Though I cannot possibly offer a one size fits all formula for creating and running a successful farm, there are a few tips that could help a potential farmer start out on the right foot. The first pointer would be to have a true and concrete vision for the farm. You need to calculate all the farming costs associated with everyday ground maintenance, water, and so on. Make sure you have a concrete plan about what type of farm you want and what type of housing, equipment, and livestock, and/or crops you need, and in what quantity. In addition, consider the cost of purchasing each item. This will be important when funding is sought. A business plan with a practical template is a must.
Once funding you secure funding, put that plan into action by keeping the bottom line in mind. Set goals and get started on your dream. Just as with any business startup or big dream that is being realized, a farm should be a project that is well researched. Though you cannot possibly know everything or plan for every possibility, educate yourself about your undertaking. This will make the process easier overall. So realize your dream, but be realistic in your approach, even if that dream is to become a farmer.
