Category: General

Charley Maxwell, Area Agribusiness Agent

We are less than 50 days into 2026, and you may feel like it’s been at least twice that long. The weather has been wild, market news has not been particularly favorable, and data centers are trying to pop up like Dollar Generals. Right now, you may be feeling a mix of anxiety and motivation for this new growing season. We have entered the months when winter plans start to be put into action. Soon enough, we will be in full swing, when there don’t seem to be enough hours in the day, and something is always breaking down. So, how do we enter this growing season with positive motivation and the intention of avoiding burnout?

Step one is understanding what burnout is and is not. Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress. It is not stress or feeling overwhelmed.

You may be asking yourself, “How is burnout not stress if it is brought on by prolonged or repeated stress?” Stress can be labeled as good or bad- it is simply your body’s response to everyday pressures. Repeated and prolonged stress that is not good, exciting, or motivating leads to burnout.

Step two is recognizing when you have reached the point of burnout. Someone who is burned out can be characterized by physical, emotional or mental exhaustion, accompanied by decreased motivation, lowered performance and negative attitudes towards oneself and others.

If you are wondering how close you are to burnout, you can take a quick assessment at https://kandiwiens.com/burnout-quiz/

Step three is making adjustments to avoid or resolve burnout. Managing stress is the key. Setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, practicing mindfulness and relaxation, and seeking support are four key individual strategies to managing stress. Adaptations of these strategies will vary from individual to individual. SC AgriWellness is a free service for South Carolina Farm Families. If you are feeling burned out or consistently dealing with overwhelm and stress, SC AgriWellness is a resource available to you. Visit Farm Stress Management to learn more.

To start this season on the best foot forward and with a plan to reduce stress, consider these questions.

1. What caused the most stress last season?
   1. If it were something you could control, like time management or record-keeping, what can you put in place now to relieve that stress?
   2. If it were beyond your control, such as drought or hurricanes, have you considered insurance options and production practices to mitigate the impacts?
2. Are you organized for this season?
   1. Record-keeping system in place.
   2. Seed and inputs already in hand or ordered.
   3. Inventory is up to date.
   4. Planting dates are roughly scheduled.
   5.  A marketing plan is in place, and any contracts have been signed.
   6. Labor is lined up.
   7. Equipment has been serviced.
3. What are your work-life balance non-negotiables?
   1. Make sure any important dates (weddings, sporting events, birthdays, anniversaries, etc) are clearly on every calendar.
   2. Maintain social interactions off the farm. They give you a break and some distance that can provide perspective.
   3. Prioritize any religious services you attend.
   4. Enjoy your morning coffee or tea, take small breaks and moments throughout the week.

Following the mission, vision, values and goals of your operation will help keep you grounded throughout the season. Give yourself grace for the things you cannot control that may shift scheduling or outcomes. When overwhelm or stress becomes consistent, take a break. Not only does efficiency go out the window when you reach burnout, but the risk of farm accidents increases. Take care of yourself this season so you can best care for your crops, land, and livestock.

The Clemson Extension Agribusiness Team congratulates Jeff Wilson of Cotton Hills Farm on being named the 2025 South Carolina Sunbelt Ag Expo Farmer of the Year. Jeff was nominated by Clemson Extension Agribusiness Program Team Director Dr. Adam Kantrovich and Ben Boyles, Clemson Extension Agribusiness Agent, in recognition of his outstanding leadership, innovation, and long-standing commitment to South Carolina agriculture.

This honor recognizes farmers who exemplify excellence in production agriculture, conservation, business management, and community leadership. Jeff’s selection places him among an elite group of producers who shape the future of agriculture in the Palmetto State and beyond.

Cotton Hills Farm, a fifth-generation family operation in Lowrys, South Carolina, encompasses approximately 1,000 acres of diversified production including row crops, produce, and cut flowers. The Wilson family has built a farm business rooted in diversification, sustainability, and direct-to-consumer engagement, creating a model that is both economically resilient and deeply connected to the community. Their on-farm market, u-pick operations, and agritourism enterprises have become a cornerstone of local food access in their region.

“Jeff has a remarkable ability to innovate while staying deeply rooted in the traditions that make family farms successful,” said Ben Boyles, Clemson Extension Agribusiness Agent. “His sons work directly alongside him on the farm, and seeing his grandchildren already eager to be involved speaks volumes about the culture they’ve built. Cotton Hills Farm is truly a multi-generational operation in every sense of the word.”

In addition to on-farm innovation, Jeff is widely respected for his willingness to mentor other producers, share knowledge, and serve as a leader within South Carolina’s agricultural community. His dedication to conservation reflects a deep respect for natural resources, while his business diversification demonstrates the entrepreneurial mindset needed for long-term farm success.

For Clemson Extension, recognizing producers like Jeff Wilson reflects the heart of our mission, supporting farmers who are adaptable, forward-thinking, and deeply invested in their communities. His operation serves as a powerful example for new and beginning farmers across the state who are seeking to build profitable, sustainable, and values-driven farm businesses.

Jeff’s selection as the 2025 South Carolina Sunbelt Ag Expo Farmer of the Year is a well-earned honor and a proud moment for the Lowrys community and South Carolina agriculture as a whole.

You can learn more about the Sunbelt Ag Expo Farmer of the Year Program here.