Emily Lees: Many benefits to stepping away from the farm

Like many farmers, I find it surprisingly difficult to leave the farm, especially midweek. It’s all too easy to work late into the evening just to tick off a few more jobs.

One thing that persuades me to take a breather, however, is my part-time role in the Army Reserve.

This is a job I have thoroughly enjoyed for more than 10 years, and although it can be difficult to balance with the demands of the farm, it offers a welcome change of pace.

See also: Emily Lees – why I’ve mostly enjoyed my farming pregnancy

About the author

Emily Lees

Raised in Scotland, Emily Lees worked in the pharmaceutical industry before heading to Dorset to help run her husband’s family farm. Based in the Poole Harbour catchment, the farm produces organic beef and has many diversifications.

Read more articles by Emily Lees

Instead of discussing fencing or grazing plans, I assist with exercise planning or rifle cleaning and have interesting chats with my colleagues about a completely different world.

Having come into farming later in life than most, I’m gradually learning how important it is to have something beyond the farm.

Whether it’s a hobby, a passion or a part-time job, stepping into another postcode for an evening is surprisingly refreshing.

It feels good to be involved in something important that has nothing to do with cattle or environmental schemes.

I’ve also noticed many similarities between farmers and soldiers. We have to get out and about no matter the weather, with resilience being a fundamental building block of personnel.

Driving large machinery, too. The Army helped me gain my HGV licence and is now attempting to teach me how to drive a tank.

Navigating a tractor and bale-laden trailer through the village doesn’t seem nearly as daunting.

Of course, there are military commitments to juggle, from annual training requirements to reports and the inevitable stream of emails.

But the benefits far outweigh the demands. Time away from the farm is an invaluable reset, leaving me more motivated for the next day’s work.

Spending time with non-farming colleagues also broadens the conversation beyond straw prices, or my latest complaints about Defra.

Bivvying in the rain isn’t for everyone, but I encourage you to find your own escape.

Whether that’s joining a running club, dusting off the knitting needles or volunteering with the local Scouts, we all benefit from stepping away from the farm now and then.