Experiencing Farm Mum Guilt: A Young Farmer’s Perspective
As a young farmer, I have recently found myself grappling with a wave of guilt that I have dubbed “Farm Mum Guilt”. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was somehow failing in my role as a caregiver to my farm animals. This emotional burden weighed heavily on me as I tried to balance the demands of running a farm with the responsibilities of being a nurturing farm “mother”.
I soon realized that many other young farmers were experiencing similar emotions, feeling torn between their duties to their farms and their desire to provide the best care for their animals. The pressure to perform at a high level in both roles can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of guilt and self-doubt.
It is important for young farmers to remember that they are not alone in experiencing these emotions. It is natural to feel a sense of responsibility towards the animals in your care, but it is also important to practice self-care and seek support when needed. By taking care of yourself, you will be better equipped to care for your farm and animals in the long run.
So, if you are a young farmer feeling the weight of “Farm Mum Guilt”, know that you are not alone. Reach out to fellow farmers for support and remember to prioritize your own well-being. The health and happiness of your animals depend on it.
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Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.