I probably have had too much time too think with Sandy taking me out of the field to work on beans. My birthday is coming up soon and I am getting very close to 50. The big thing is I feel a great sense of frustration over what I have not accomplished to this point. I guess the exclamation point is that even taking into account the drought the crops are not going to be what I had hoped for this year. We had setbacks the past couple of years with a serious drought last year among other things. I guess I had my hopes too high that this would be a turnaround year this year. Not that things will be terrible but I had hoped this would put me back on the map as maybe picking up more ground. This kind of leads to the next issue that I seem to falling further back of my competitors in this regard. It does not matter that nearly all of them had unusual success with off farm ventures that they were able to use in accelerating their growth. I wish I could get potential landlords to see past the shiney paint and buddy seats to see I am not doing bad all things considered. Last thing bothering me is it has gotten very difficult to find things off farm to supplement my income. It is very much an employer's market here and they do not want to hear about things competing for an employee's time. I've been depending on the farm for a few years now so I have to be upfront with a potential employer as to what I have been doing with my time. I know it sounds like I came on to whine but maybe somebody has some perspective that may be helpful.
- Thread starter NY 986
- Start date
Bob Bancroft
Well-known Member
- Location
- Aurora NY
I wish I had a positive answer, but I don't. In light of what just happened, the economy will not improve.
I just finished this AM mowing corn stalks on some rented ground. The owner only cares about hunting, and that contantly puts us at odds. As I am riding around there I can't help but wonder when he'll decide to go for the BIG dollars from the wealthy farm-to-spend-money neighbors.
I have got to make a decision on where to spend some serious money before the end of the year. If I could save it, that would be my choice at this point, but that's not possible.
So I think many of us are facing challenges, and worrying about the future.
Best of luck.
I just finished this AM mowing corn stalks on some rented ground. The owner only cares about hunting, and that contantly puts us at odds. As I am riding around there I can't help but wonder when he'll decide to go for the BIG dollars from the wealthy farm-to-spend-money neighbors.
I have got to make a decision on where to spend some serious money before the end of the year. If I could save it, that would be my choice at this point, but that's not possible.
So I think many of us are facing challenges, and worrying about the future.
Best of luck.
Anonymous-0
Well-known Member
1st thing would be switching to florescent or grow lights wherever you hang out a lot..... You'd be surprised what it will do for your moods..... If you talking about things with a full belly, you's better than a lot of folks..... hang in there...
flying belgian
Well-known Member
It kinda sounds to me like you did come on here to whine. That being said, you need to want to help yourself before anyone else can help you. It sounds like you are looking for growth with more crop acres only. You need to think outside the box. I don't know how many crop acres you are running now but evidently you don't feel it is enough to make a living to your standards. Are you doing the same old corn, soybean rotation as your competitors? If you have 400 crop acres and they have 4000 how would you expect to do financially the same as them? How about cucumbers? How about watermelons? How about hogs or turkeys? If you are to close to a metro area for livestock, how about a roadside stand with veggies or farm fresh eggs? How about agri-tourism? If you have more time then money which it sounds like then you need to get into some nitch that is labor intensive. Your neighbors have more money then time. That is how they acquire more land for traditional corn,soybean farming. How about sweetcorn or pumpkins? How about 1/2 hogs or 1/4 of beef? Come on put your thinking cap on. After you have considered and tried a bunch of things and have failed at every one for different reasons come back on here and tell us maybe one of us will have some more non traditional ideas. You will get no sympathy from me unless you have tried all the a fore mentioned ideas. Try and look at the glass as half full. See the rose bush for the blossoms not the thorns. I don't have much but every thing I got, I figured out how to get myself and I am damn proud of it. Good luck. The Flying Belgian.
Traditional Farmer
Well-known Member
- Location
- Virginia
There's at least a Billion Chinese that'd gladly trade places with you.I never had much for goals so I far exceeded my own expectations and one of my high school teachers that told me I'd be in prison by age 25(LOL).
Keith Molden
Well-known Member
Nope, doesn't sound like you're whining to me. Sounds to me like you're just going thru the process of getting older. All our lives we're told that turning 50 somehow puts us in the old age group. Well it really does, but guess what! there is alot of life after 50. Money is getting in short supply for all of us to one degree or other. Ask yourself--do you REALLY need that extra achorage or are you just wanting to keep up with the other younger guys. let them go ahead, you've had your run at it now ease off a bit & enjoy life. Just my thoughts, Keith
I know the feeling, tried and have been very close to obtain that off farm job related in my field, which was always lucrative, just not near home and close does not win the race.
The thing is, or with me, it seems you lose a sense of purpose, farming and dealing with crops and or livestock definitely has the ups and downs, besides all the work and hours that keep a person busy doing it, but that stability in something that you work at like an off farm job or venue that provides decently, when lost or can't be found really puts a damper on ones mindset, something I really hate, that and all the gray cloudy days, like Dave says, I agree on it, sunny days and making sure you eat right, does help immensely, having been quite sick recently and lost my appetite because of it, sure as heck does a number on your morale LOL!
I recently got the news, after I literally had to extract it, sorry we hired someone else, was a job I did before and worked there before, really wanted and needed this job, we did great things there too, never burned any bridges, figured I had it, and a welcome relief after 8 years or more of doing low pay physical labor since I initially left the business and working out of town. Saw the position advertised, had a reference letter from the same exact agency, + worked for them for 3 years, know the job well, nope could not sell it to them. Ok, but there's no other listings for awhile now, which leaves a person hanging in limbo, the body really hates the hard labor intense work, so now what... Low paying crap jobs that you did when young like many others did as well then moved on while pursuing education, career etc., does nothing nowadays, to pay bills, taxes, and just wears on a person mind at this age, but it makes you look good, you still get up and go to some job, but its one you hate and does not pay enough to do anything. It sure as heck has me in a rock and a hard place, even more comical when or even if you actually get a rejection letter and don't get a job, they do not even tell you why. And today they want perfection, employers market is right, pass a 5 panel drug test, we want your credit history, any criminal history, something to verify your behavioral history, and how many other similar things, one blip, likely you won't get it, then someone says "well you should have thought of that then" this does you no good, then there's age, they want a younger person so mid 40's-50 year old people have to deal with that too, when all said and done, its entirely possible to not be employed because they just will not hire you, then what, become a ward of the state, sell drugs LOL Really, its just comical, lot of good people with less than perfect backgrounds, was never an issue years ago.
So now you have to really think outside the box, never been a manic depressive, always keep a pretty upbeat demeanor, tomorrow is another day, but with land taxes always on the horizon and things being the way they are its a difficult task to stay above what worries you. I don't have any answers either except to keep plugging along, stay alert and focused on something productive, best to stay busy and not let ones mind get sour by this kind of adversity, wish like heck I could find a solution too, they never said, (whomever they is LOL) it would be easy, but I also never thought the door on every opportunity would get slammed shut either.
When I worked in NYC, I did some precast plank/masonry buildings, and the precast erector was a British guy, he always used to say, "Don't worry Bill, things always change" and looking back, he was usually right, even though it may not be on the horizon, too slow in happening, hard to argue with just the same. I do hope something will do just that soon for anyone in a situation similar, can't take away hope or well um not without a fight LOL !!!!
The thing is, or with me, it seems you lose a sense of purpose, farming and dealing with crops and or livestock definitely has the ups and downs, besides all the work and hours that keep a person busy doing it, but that stability in something that you work at like an off farm job or venue that provides decently, when lost or can't be found really puts a damper on ones mindset, something I really hate, that and all the gray cloudy days, like Dave says, I agree on it, sunny days and making sure you eat right, does help immensely, having been quite sick recently and lost my appetite because of it, sure as heck does a number on your morale LOL!
I recently got the news, after I literally had to extract it, sorry we hired someone else, was a job I did before and worked there before, really wanted and needed this job, we did great things there too, never burned any bridges, figured I had it, and a welcome relief after 8 years or more of doing low pay physical labor since I initially left the business and working out of town. Saw the position advertised, had a reference letter from the same exact agency, + worked for them for 3 years, know the job well, nope could not sell it to them. Ok, but there's no other listings for awhile now, which leaves a person hanging in limbo, the body really hates the hard labor intense work, so now what... Low paying crap jobs that you did when young like many others did as well then moved on while pursuing education, career etc., does nothing nowadays, to pay bills, taxes, and just wears on a person mind at this age, but it makes you look good, you still get up and go to some job, but its one you hate and does not pay enough to do anything. It sure as heck has me in a rock and a hard place, even more comical when or even if you actually get a rejection letter and don't get a job, they do not even tell you why. And today they want perfection, employers market is right, pass a 5 panel drug test, we want your credit history, any criminal history, something to verify your behavioral history, and how many other similar things, one blip, likely you won't get it, then someone says "well you should have thought of that then" this does you no good, then there's age, they want a younger person so mid 40's-50 year old people have to deal with that too, when all said and done, its entirely possible to not be employed because they just will not hire you, then what, become a ward of the state, sell drugs LOL Really, its just comical, lot of good people with less than perfect backgrounds, was never an issue years ago.
So now you have to really think outside the box, never been a manic depressive, always keep a pretty upbeat demeanor, tomorrow is another day, but with land taxes always on the horizon and things being the way they are its a difficult task to stay above what worries you. I don't have any answers either except to keep plugging along, stay alert and focused on something productive, best to stay busy and not let ones mind get sour by this kind of adversity, wish like heck I could find a solution too, they never said, (whomever they is LOL) it would be easy, but I also never thought the door on every opportunity would get slammed shut either.
When I worked in NYC, I did some precast plank/masonry buildings, and the precast erector was a British guy, he always used to say, "Don't worry Bill, things always change" and looking back, he was usually right, even though it may not be on the horizon, too slow in happening, hard to argue with just the same. I do hope something will do just that soon for anyone in a situation similar, can't take away hope or well um not without a fight LOL !!!!
RamblinMan
Member
I have studied the history of Deere and McCormick. Over and over they talk about the panic of 1857 and 1893. Today you will hear from all the "sky is falling" naysayers, glass half empty people, nothing will ever be the same again. Well, history repeats itself and this is quite possibly that low period. I didn"t get my way yesterday but I refuse to believe that I am doomed to defeat over the next four years. I had a flat tire the other day and the repair shop refused to fix the tire but insisted that I buy a new one for $120. I didn't have the money for a new tire. I plugged the tire and will run it as long as possible. That"s how we handle hard times. My parents grew up in the Depression and I learned from their experience.
Well, I do need to keep pushing along. My parents do have a retirement pension but are getting to the point where they need a little more. I would say the least of my problems is being worked to death. I just need to find an unusual niche if the extra acres are not there. I've thought of a lot of things FB has mentioned but I lack key advantages to be an efficient competitor. All the small scale veggies are done by the Amish who can work their kids hard. My wife was never able to have kids. The processors are not interested in operating in my geographic area. I guess like Bob Bancroft was talking about the uncertainty of the future weighs heavy on me.
Pretty much everyone goes through the same - even have a name for it - "mid life-crisis". It doesn't really matter where you are as far as accomplishments, there's always someone that looks like their doing better. According to a study I read, as long as a persons basic needs are met, more money or possessions do not increase happiness. Ask anyone working in Hospice - they will tell you they never heard a dying person saying they wished they had worked harder or had gained more money or possessions. Good health and a good name are far more important.
Set some goals (written) for the things that are really important to you and keep thinking about them. Usually, realistic goals come to pass. Don't envy the other guy because he's likely feeling envy for the next guy up on the ladder.
Set some goals (written) for the things that are really important to you and keep thinking about them. Usually, realistic goals come to pass. Don't envy the other guy because he's likely feeling envy for the next guy up on the ladder.
pat sublett
Well-known Member
I would give a lot to be almost 50 instead of 78. There is a lot of things I would do if I was 50 or even 60.
Anonymous-0
Well-known Member
You don't know how deep in debt your competitors are in, they may be at high risk and on the edge. Many of the millionaires have gone broke a number of times, that must have been a real downer for them ,but they picked themselves up and kept trying. Cheer up sounds like you are doing well.
My late dad went through this when my brother and I entered the military during the Korean war.
He was better prepared than most since he had a college degree. He started out to become a Vet
and would have made good one. He loved farming
and had a degee in Agriculture. My nephew has the home when they left the farm. My dad worked at a chemical company until he was 70 and then sold real estate. A lot of the income from the farm went into buying equipment. He was always wanting me to get into farming. I told him I liked working for the goverment and someday would retire from that job. That was 25 years ago since I retired and I'm close to 80. Hal
PS: He's the fourth to the right in the bottom row.
He was better prepared than most since he had a college degree. He started out to become a Vet
and would have made good one. He loved farming
and had a degee in Agriculture. My nephew has the home when they left the farm. My dad worked at a chemical company until he was 70 and then sold real estate. A lot of the income from the farm went into buying equipment. He was always wanting me to get into farming. I told him I liked working for the goverment and someday would retire from that job. That was 25 years ago since I retired and I'm close to 80. Hal
PS: He's the fourth to the right in the bottom row.
Vito
Well-known Member
Everyday presents itself with new challenges.I am 1 year away from 50 and yes when I reflect on the years past I believe i could have done better.Probably a lot better.I don't like living in the past and refuse to get overwhelmed in thought about the future.
Quitting drinking alcohol 5 years ago changed things for the better for me as the demons don't come anymore.
You sound like a smart guy so sit down and think it through really well.The answers are always there you just have to find one you are happy with.
HTH
Vito
Quitting drinking alcohol 5 years ago changed things for the better for me as the demons don't come anymore.
You sound like a smart guy so sit down and think it through really well.The answers are always there you just have to find one you are happy with.
HTH
Vito
dont sweat the small things if u got ur familys health aroof over ur head u got it all sounds like to me your doin ok shiney paint doesnt make a better man theirs folks in this world who would love to have what u have life is full of ups and down more down than up or we just notice them more be thankfull work hard enjoy life itl b ok
charles craig
Member
give it another 30 yrs and then take another look at it
I think most motivated people come to wonder if they have distinguished themselves or made a positive impact for their families and communities, what they forget is that the people that keep plodding away day after day, earning a living, paying their taxes, being responsible for themselves and their families are the true backbone of the country.
Larry NEIL
Well-known Member
Hey, ther is ALWAYS a bright side. I just turned 70 in september.
I came into this world with nothing, and I still got most of it!!!!.
I came into this world with nothing, and I still got most of it!!!!.
I can't really pin it down, just seems like either things have changed over the years, or the job market is just so much more competitive, yet I can relate to the same frustration NY 986 mentions, its good to talk about vs stew in it I suppose.
The odd thing is when you have good qualifications, references (which is kind of BS given its just someones word and a person you listed that is favorable to your cause)and significant job experience, and you cant land that job, large or small company, definitely a sign of the times and anyone with a decent job should be thankful for it.
For me the frustrating part was that I figured, gee, if I can't get that job, and its one I've done well before, "Houston we have a problem" LOL!
Furthermore, pay was good, M-F 40 hours no stress, just ideal, kind of more of a let down, then someone else mentions similar frustrations, you certainly can relate. Just have to think sooner or later something will give, its just the interim, or in between, the decent pay would really help right now, vs. marginal profit for the last how many years. I guess a person just has to suck it up, stay focused and not dwell on the negative side of things, which never helps.
The odd thing is when you have good qualifications, references (which is kind of BS given its just someones word and a person you listed that is favorable to your cause)and significant job experience, and you cant land that job, large or small company, definitely a sign of the times and anyone with a decent job should be thankful for it.
For me the frustrating part was that I figured, gee, if I can't get that job, and its one I've done well before, "Houston we have a problem" LOL!
Furthermore, pay was good, M-F 40 hours no stress, just ideal, kind of more of a let down, then someone else mentions similar frustrations, you certainly can relate. Just have to think sooner or later something will give, its just the interim, or in between, the decent pay would really help right now, vs. marginal profit for the last how many years. I guess a person just has to suck it up, stay focused and not dwell on the negative side of things, which never helps.
Similar threads
We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.
Copyright © 1997-2024 Yesterday's Tractor Co.
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this website, including design and content, without written permission is strictly prohibited. Trade Marks and Trade Names contained and used in this Website are those of others, and are used in this Website in a descriptive sense to refer to the products of others. Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy TRADEMARK DISCLAIMER: Tradenames and Trademarks referred to within Yesterday's Tractor Co. products and within the Yesterday's Tractor Co. websites are the property of their respective trademark holders. None of these trademark holders are affiliated with Yesterday's Tractor Co., our products, or our website nor are we sponsored by them. John Deere and its logos are the registered trademarks of the John Deere Corporation. Agco, Agco Allis, White, Massey Ferguson and their logos are the registered trademarks of AGCO Corporation. Case, Case-IH, Farmall, International Harvester, New Holland and their logos are registered trademarks of CNH Global N.V.
Yesterday's Tractors - Antique Tractor Headquarters
Website Accessibility Policy