Jan. 2 2024 09:24 AM

As we enter a new year, remember that goals are part of a business plan.

Somehow the calendar has turned over to a new year. Time seems to find a way to move at different speeds throughout the year. The arrival of 2024 seems to have snuck up immediately.

The new year is always a fresh start, with all the possibilities of 365 days in front of us. It’s a time to dream and plan for our businesses and personal goals.

Goal setting can feel so very frustrating in such a volatile industry as dairy. But there really is worth in getting those dreams on paper and taking a look at the steps needed to make them a reality. We all know there’s only one day difference between the new year, but that fresh frame of mind can be just the spark to ignite the enthusiasm.

A fresh mind and the right support people in your corner can make all the difference in your goals. Don’t be afraid to share your dreams and goals with others. Reaching out to the people who can help support you even in brainstorming or small ways can make a huge impact.

What goals are you setting for yourself or your farm this year? Nothing is ever too big or small to work toward. Dreams do deserve a place in your business plan, so don’t forget to include them in your yearly planning.


Darleen Sichley

The author is a third-generation dairy farmer from Oregon where she farms in partnership with her husband and parents. As a mother of young sons who round out the family-run operation as micromanagers, Darleen blogs about the three generations of her family working together at Guernsey Dairy Mama. Abiqua Acres Mann's Guernsey Dairy is currently home to 90 registered Guernseys and transitioned to a robotic milking system in 2017.