The seven deadly sins of arable farming and how this sinner handles them:

WRATH: Stay cool at all times. Firing the spanner out the workshop door will not repair that machine. Be patient, the bearing can be replaced.

GREED: Know what your land is capable of producing and target that yield. Pushing a crop over the top will only result in problems.

SLOTH: Be diligent and be prepared. Have the machine ready to operate, and the inputs on farm in good time.

PRIDE: The deadliest of the sins. A little is fine, but don’t let it consume you. Others will help clear the harvest or finish the drilling if you ask. Be thankful, smile, and offer to pay them as they leave the field.

LUST: The neighbours’ tractor may be younger and fresher looking than yours, but you are probably too old to operate the on-board computer systems. Just remember how much you fancy your reliable old classic and treat it to a make-over at the local valet centre.

ENVY: Some will always be more successful than others. Know and understand your own strengths and use them to the full. Belittling others’ successes will not help you achieve that record yielding crop. Listening and learning might.

GLUTTONY: Taking on more work than you can successfully manage can cripple your happiness and your business. Do you really need that extra 40ha of wheat? Moderation is the key.

Seasons greetings and good wishes to all.

Arable Farmer Focus: Allan Chambers