As you sit down for your Christmas dinner and open the next box of sweets, it’s important to remember to take a proper break from the farm over Christmas, if possible.

When we hear about sustainability, we automatically think of economics and the environment, but the social aspect of sustainability is extremely important and it includes making sure you have a good work-life balance.

Even if you don’t feel like you need a break, it is important to take one. Try to keep work to a minimum over Christmas.

Milking, feeding and bedding animals are all essential jobs, but there are other jobs that can possibly be left alone for a few days.

Extra help

That said, Christmas is also a time when you may have some extra help at home and if there are a few people floating around, there may be jobs that need more than one person that you might decide to get done while they are there.

Farm safety is essential and these type of jobs are the ones to prioritise over the break.

Don’t wait to do it when the children have gone back to college or work, when you might be on your own.

The break is often used as a chance for part-time farmers to catch up or plan ahead and while this is good, it is important not to spend all your free time over Christmas working on the farm.

Safety to the forefront

Keep farm safety at the top of your mind at all times. When young people are home from school, they will no doubt want to lend a hand on the farm or road test their new tractors, bikes, wheels and machinery.

It is also important to keep in contact with neighbours and friends. It’s not easy in the current situation with COVID-19, but make a phone call or pay a visit to the farmyard in the open air with a warm coat.