The information we’re learning about in the “Leaving a Lasting Legacy” program is important for every person. Communication was the topic of last week’s program. It’s so important as with each conversation we either build or break trust and relationships.

How we speak counts more than what we say. I was reminded of that this past week.

• 7% is WHAT we say…the actual words
• 38% is the tone of voice…HOW we say it
• 55% is body language…also HOW communication comes across

Communication (or lack thereof) is the #1 issue raised by families in general. Why is family communication so difficult, especially when a family business is involved? Four potential reasons include: we don’t understand different perspectives, we’ve had difficult past experiences trying to talk about family and/or business affairs, the threat of loss of control, and a reluctance to change. How we can improve is by seeking to listen to understand and also understanding different personality traits and perspectives of others.

I find personality tests fascinating as I really like to know what makes each individual unique. One free tool that was recommended to us that is science-based was the DISC personality assessment at: https://www.123test.com/disc-personality-test/ . Perhaps consider each person in your family take this and then discuss your results as a family. These tools help provide insights into others.

When it comes to communicating with people of different generations, it’s important to know what they value. To engage Baby Boomers (born 1945-1964), encourage them to provide mentorship and learn together. Gen Xers (born 1965-1980) are independent, resilient, and adaptable. To engage them, give them opportunities for leadership. To engage Millennials (born 1981-1996), include them in management and allow autonomy and flexibility as family and social impact is important to them. Generation Z (born 1997-2015) are naturally adapted to technology and are financially driven. To engage them, show them opportunities for work-life balance and career advancement.

They spoke a lot about family meetings. Originally, I thought this was more complicated. However, it can be as simple as touching base via the phone or having breakfast/lunch together a few times a month. Family meetings can be as simple as talking through the coming week’s plans, any goals for the farm, prioritizing bills to pay, etc. It’s also really important to be a family beyond whatever role each person plays in the farm or business! Check out https://cap.unl.edu/succession/ for additional resources.

Friday February 7th Conversation: Relay Cropping and Double Cropping: There’s been increasing interest of how to improve the economics of small grains with either relay cropping or double cropping soybeans with either rye or wheat. Hear from growers who are trying this in a variety of ways and what they have learned. Conversations are held each Friday from 10 a.m.-Noon at the 4-H Building in York. Please RSVP to 402-362-5508

Nitrogen Challenge Meeting will be held Monday, February 10^th at the Holthus Convention Center in York from 9 a.m.-Noon. Hear the latest on-farm research results, about the technology from Sentinel Nutrient Management, information about chemigation certification, and from a larger farmer panel. There’s no charge for this meeting, but please RSVP to (402) 362-5508.