32 Work-Life Balance
Common Stressors:
- Long Hours & No Set Schedule – Early mornings, late nights, and weekend work are the norm in agriculture.
- Seasonal Overload – Planting, calving, harvest, and emergencies are just some of the jobs that often require nonstop attention with little time to rest.
- Limited Time for Family or Hobbies – Work often takes priority over personal relationships and interests, especially those within the same household.
- Guilt for Taking Time Off – Many farmers or ranchers feel selfish or lazy for stepping away from their responsibilities.
- Unclear Boundaries Between Work & Home – Living on the farm or ranch makes it hard to “clock out”.
Addressing Stressors:
- Set Daily Limits When Possible – Designate specific times to step away from work, even for short breaks.
- Plan for Downtime After Busy Seasons – Schedule rest and family time after periods of intense labor.
- Delegate Tasks – Share responsibilities with family or hired help to reduce personal overload.
- Make Time for Non-Work Activities – Invest in hobbies, community events, or short getaways to recharge.
- Establish Work Zones & Home Zones – Separate work areas from living space to help mentally disconnect at the end of the day. While this may be difficult for generational farmers or ranchers, designating a “work-free” zone can assist in decreasing stress.
Mental Health Impacts:
- Burnout & Fatigue – Constant work without rest can lead to exhaustion and disinterest in both work and personal life.
- Strained Relationships – Lack of time or energy for loved ones can cause emotional distance.
- Loss of Identity Outside of Work – When everything revolves around the farm, it’s easy to forget who you are beyond it.
Addressing Mental Health:
- Reframe Rest as Productive – Taking time for yourself improves focus, energy, and long-term sustainability.
- Talk with Family About Expectations – Clear communication about work limits helps reduce guilt and tension.
- Connect with Others in Agriculture – Sharing experiences with fellow farmers helps normalize the need for a sustainable work-life balance.
- Use Breaks for Mental Reset – Even 10–15 minutes of rest or stillness can reduce stress and improve your outlook- this could be in the cab or in an area where work is not being done.
Nebraska AgrAbility. (2024). Rehabilitating Nebraska farmers and ranchers with disabilities workshop
Nebraska AgrAbility. (2024). What is stress?