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  • Episode 018: When Change Feels Hard and Uncomfortable in Rural Life Part 1

    Episode 018: When Change Feels Hard and Uncomfortable in Rural Life Part 1
    2024/10/28
    If you’ve been craving change but feel stuck, or if you’ve started making changes but are now feeling unsure or uncomfortable, this episode is for you. Change can be scary, exciting, and overwhelming all at once, especially in rural life, where tradition runs deep. It’s easy to feel conflicted—wanting something different but fearing what might come next. In this episode, I share my own experience of navigating change on the farm and how stepping out of the familiar doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. In fact, that discomfort you feel? It’s a sign you’re growing. We explore why change feels so uncomfortable, particularly for those of us who are tied to family traditions and rural lifestyles. Change pushes us out of our comfort zones, and that’s hard, especially when we’re surrounded by generations of people who’ve done things the same way for years. I talk about the fear of doing things "wrong," how the weight of tradition can hold us back, and the unique pressures that farm wives face when they challenge what’s expected of them. Yet, challenging tradition doesn’t mean you’re disrespecting it—it’s about finding a balance between honoring the past and making room for the future. Finally, I discuss how to navigate the hard work that change requires, from overcoming fear and self-doubt to handling the tensions that arise when you try to do things differently. I offer practical advice on embracing change without losing yourself in the process. Next week, we’ll dive deeper into how to keep moving forward, even when you feel like you’re standing still. We’ll also explore identity shifts and how letting go of who you think you “should” be can help you discover who you truly are. Key Points Covered: Why Change Feels So Uncomfortable: Change pushes us out of our comfort zones, which is why it feels so difficult. It’s easier to stick with what’s familiar, even if it no longer serves us. The uncertainty that comes with change makes us question if we’re making the right decisions, but it’s part of the growth process. The Fear of Doing Things "Wrong": There’s a fear of making mistakes or doing things the "wrong" way, especially when stepping away from the traditions we’ve been taught. This fear can hold us back from fully embracing change and moving forward, but it’s important to remember that mistakes are part of learning. The Weight of Tradition in Rural Life: In rural communities, traditions run deep, and stepping out of these long-standing practices can feel like you’re going against generations of family values. This is especially true for farm wives who are often expected to fill certain roles. Challenging those roles can feel overwhelming but necessary for personal growth. Generational Tensions When Bringing in Change: One of the hardest parts about change in rural life is the tension that arises between generations. The younger generation often wants to introduce new ideas, but it can feel like a battle when the older generation holds on to the "way things have always been done." This can create emotional strain, especially in tight-knit family farming operations. Challenging Tradition Doesn’t Mean Disrespecting It: Bringing in new ideas or changing the way things are done doesn’t mean you’re rejecting or disrespecting the past. There’s a way to honor the work and values of previous generations while still embracing change. It’s about balance—recognizing what’s valuable from the past and finding ways to evolve. Change Takes Hard Work: Change doesn’t happen overnight. It requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to feel uncomfortable. From questioning your decisions to handling pushback from others, the journey of change can be tough. But the hard work pays off when you start to see growth and progress in your life. Overcoming the Discomfort of Uncertainty: Part of the challenge with change is the uncertainty it brings. There’s no clear roadmap for success, and that can feel unsettling. Learning to sit with that discomfort and push through it is a key part of making lasting changes, whether in your personal life or on the farm. Resources & Links: Grounded Farm Wife Journal Connect with Jessica: Follow me on Instagram@groundedfarmwife Check out my websitewww.groundedfarmwife.com.au Find the complete show notes here:https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/18
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    30 分
  • Can I Keep Carrying It All? Finding Strength in Doing What Matters Most

    Can I Keep Carrying It All? Finding Strength in Doing What Matters Most
    2024/10/21


    Lately, I’ve been asking myself, "Can I keep carrying it all?" Between the end of calving season, dealing with silage, board meetings, and keeping up with the kids’ appointments and school schedules, it feels like everything is piling up. Add in the winter illnesses we’ve all been battling, and I started questioning if I’m really managing it all or just barely holding it together.

    In this episode, I talk about the strategies that help me cope with the mental load we carry, especially as rural women. We’ll dive into setting boundaries, reassessing commitments, and working together with our partners to lighten the load. It’s not about trying to do it all, but focusing on what truly matters. If you’ve ever felt like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, this episode is for you. Together, we’ll figure out how to find strength in what’s important and let go of the rest.

    But it’s also made me think about what really matters. We all juggle so much—our roles as wives, mothers, and farmers—but there’s a point where we need to step back and figure out where to draw the line. How can we find the strength to manage it all without losing ourselves?

    For me, it’s not about doing everything perfectly or fitting it all in—it’s about setting boundaries, letting go of what doesn’t align with my values, and working with Stephen as a team. Like so many of you, I’ve had moments where I feel guilty asking for help, especially when Stephen already has a lot on his plate. But I’ve realized we can’t carry it all alone, and sometimes, finding strength means doing less and focusing on what really matters. If you’ve ever felt like the weight of farm life, family, and everything else is too much, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

    Key Points from This Episode

    • Setting Boundaries: It’s crucial to define what aligns with your values and say "no" to things that stretch you too thin. Boundaries protect your time and energy, especially when you're juggling so many responsibilities.

    • Delegating to Your Partner: Don’t be afraid to ask your husband for help, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Stephen and I are a team, and it’s important to work together. When you communicate openly, it reduces stress for both of you.

    • Reevaluating Priorities: Over time, our values shift. Letting go of things that no longer fit your life (like I did with my GippsDairy board work) can be hard, but it’s necessary to free up mental space.

    • Focusing on What Matters Most: It’s easy to get caught up in the busy seasons of farming and motherhood, but true strength comes from focusing on the tasks that truly matter and letting go of trying to do it all.

    • The Mental Load: The mental weight we carry as rural women is real, but we don’t have to carry it all by ourselves. It’s okay to ask for help and to prioritize what’s important over what feels urgent.

    Resources & Links:

    • Values Bundle

    • Grounded Farm Wife Journal

    Related Episodes

    • Episode 003. My Struggle with Burnout as a Rural Farm Wife

    Connect with Jessica:

    • Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife

    • Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au

    • Join my email list

    Find the complete show notes ere: https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/episode-17

    Subscribe to the Cultivate Contentment podcast

    If you enjoyed this episode, you won’t want to miss what’s coming next! Make sure you hit the subscribe button to tune into future episodes.

    If you love the Cultivate Contentment podcast, I’d be so grateful if you’d rate and review it on iTunes! Simply scroll down, tap to give it a five star rating, then tap “Write a Review.” Your rating and review will help more rural women discover new episodes each week!
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    28 分
  • 016. Foundational Pillars of Health, Emotional Clearing and Nervous System Regulation ft. Zoe Boyce from Living Wholistically

    016. Foundational Pillars of Health, Emotional Clearing and Nervous System Regulation ft. Zoe Boyce from Living Wholistically
    2024/10/14

    In today’s episode, I’m excited to sit down with Zoe, a holistic wellness expert, naturopath, and emotional release technique (ERT) practitioner. Zoe is passionate about holistic wellness and personal growth and is a dedicated holistic health guide. With a background in Naturopathy and Emotion Release Technique, she is committed to empowering women and mothers to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. Through one-on-one sessions, group programs and compassionate support, Zoe guides her clients through emotional clearing and nervous system regulation, whilst teaching them about the fundamental pillars of health and helping them cultivate vibrant well-being in every aspect of their lives.

    Zoe’s passion is empowering women and mothers to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. We dive deep into how interconnected our physical health and emotions are, and Zoe explains the seven fundamental pillars of health that she focuses on with her clients. She highlights how diet, sleep, hydration, movement, and even nervous system regulation play a role in achieving vibrant well-being, sharing practical tips for rural women looking to improve their health sustainably.

    Key Takeaways from This Episode:
    • Health is interconnected; it's not just about diet or exercise, but how all aspects of your life come together.
    • Nervous system regulation is crucial for emotional health and can prevent feelings of overwhelm.
    • Start small and build up your wellness practices—perfection isn’t necessary to see positive changes.
    • Emotional health plays a huge role in physical well-being, and addressing emotional blockages can lead to significant improvements.
    • Simple, everyday changes, such as how you breathe or the time you spend in nature, can have a profound effect on your overall health.

    Resources & Links:

    Grounded Farm Wife Journal

    CONNECT WITH JESSICA:

    Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife

    Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au

    CONNECT WITH ZOE:

    • Follow on Instagram
    • Check out her website

    Find the complete show notes here:https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/zoe-boyce
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    48 分
  • 015. The Power of Sleep

    015. The Power of Sleep
    2024/10/07

    Episode Summary:

    On today’s episode of Cultivate Contentment, I’m talking about a topic that’s close to my heart—the power of sleep. For many of us as rural mums and farm wives, sleep feels like a luxury. Between the early mornings on the farm, caring for kids, and managing everything else that comes our way, we often put our own needs on the backburner. I’ve been there—those nights where you toss and turn, thinking about everything you have to do, only to be woken up by a child who needs you. It feels like a never-ending cycle, right?

    I know I’ve struggled with sleep ever since becoming a mum, and farm life only makes it trickier. There’s always something to be done, whether it’s late-night calf feedings or worrying about the next day’s workload. And as we get older, sleep seems to change—our bodies don’t bounce back the way they used to. In this episode, I’m sharing not just why sleep is so crucial to our well-being but also some of the hard truths I’ve learned along the way about how we, as mums, often don’t give ourselves permission to rest.

    Most importantly, I’m offering five actionable tips you can use to start improving your sleep tonight. These are simple changes you can make, even when life is busy and unpredictable. I’ve found them to be really helpful, especially during those hectic farm seasons when you’re running on empty. So, let’s dive into how we can get better sleep and start feeling more like ourselves again.

    This episode is part of my 2 month Spring Reset series. This series is all focused on helping rural women reset their lives and shift their focus to the things that bring more peace, balance, and joy. Each week, we’ll dive into a new topic that will help you slow down, find moments of contentment, and feel more grounded—despite the chaos around you.

    In this episode about The Power of Sleep, we cover:

    • The challenges of sleep after motherhood – I talk about how sleep changes once you become a mum, especially when you add the demands of farm life into the mix. It’s not just about getting less sleep, but the quality of sleep changes too. Between waking up for the kids and managing the farm, we’re constantly on edge, and that mental load can keep us awake long after the lights go out.
    • Why sleep is so critical for our well-being – I explore how lack of sleep affects us as rural mums and farm wives. It’s not just about being tired; sleep impacts everything from our mood to our decision-making. When we’re sleep-deprived, we’re more likely to feel overwhelmed, make mistakes, or lose patience with those around us. I share my own experiences of how sleep (or the lack of it) has affected me on the farm and in my role as a mum.
    • Five actionable tips for better sleep – These tips are designed to help you get better sleep, even when life is busy or unpredictable:
    1. Create a wind-down routine – Establish a short bedtime routine that signals to your body it’s time to rest. This can be something simple like reading, a warm shower, or stretching before bed.
    1. Limit screen time before bed – Turn off your phone or any screens at least 30 minutes before bed. The blue light emitted from devices can trick your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, making it harder to fall asleep.
    1. Adjust your sleep environment – Make your bedroom a restful place by adjusting the temperature, dimming the lights, and investing in comfortable bedding. Even small changes can make a big difference.
    1. Set consistent sleep and wake times – Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even during busy farming seasons. Your body will thank you for the consistency, and you’ll find it easier to fall asleep.
    1. Prioritize naps or rest when you can – Don’t feel guilty for napping! When life gets crazy, sometimes a short nap during the day can be just what you need to recharge and keep going.

    Resources & Links:

    Grounded Farm Wife Journal

    Connect with Jessica:

    Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife

    Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au

    Find the complete show notes here: https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/the-power-of-sleep
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    25 分
  • 014. Knowing When You Need a Reset and Your Four Steps to Getting There

    014. Knowing When You Need a Reset and Your Four Steps to Getting There
    2024/09/30
    Episode Summary: In this episode of Cultivate Contentment, I’m diving into something that might feel very familiar to many of you – being in the trenches of life, feeling like you're barely keeping your head above water, and realizing you need a reset. Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions, trying to survive one day at a time, without a moment to breathe or reflect? Maybe you're overwhelmed with the demands of farm life, family, and everything else that comes with it. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone. Recently, I found myself in that very place, where the days were running together, and I felt disconnected from my goals, my purpose, and even myself. Can you relate to that? Have you ever felt like you needed to hit the reset button on your life? In today’s episode, I’m sharing how I recognised that it was time for a life reset and the practical steps I took to get back on track. Resetting your life doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some intentional action. Together, we’ll go through the four steps I followed to reset and bring some clarity and peace back into my routine. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or just ready for a change, this episode is for you. Let’s take the first step towards finding more contentment and balance. Resources & Links: Grounded Farm Wife Journal Related Episodes Episode 6 No Sick Days: When Winter Illness Hits Connect with Jessica: Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au Join my email list Find the complete show notes here: https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/knowing-when-you-need-a-reset
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    26 分
  • 013. Renee Capko on Balancing Farming, Family, Motherhood, and Self

    013. Renee Capko on Balancing Farming, Family, Motherhood, and Self
    2024/09/23
    `On today’s episode, I’m chatting with my lovely friend, Renee Capko. Renee is a fellow woman in dairy, living in central Minnesota. Although we’re on opposite sides of the world, we share so many of the same challenges in balancing farm life and motherhood. Renee is married to a dairy farmer and they live in central, MN where they milk 400 dairy cows, have 100 head of beef and raise all of our steers as well. Renee is involved with the farming operation and is also raising a farm loving little boy andhas another little baby on the way. Her main focus on the farm is the cattle records, managing our employees and taking care of managing all the animals. It has been a balancing act to learn to be a mom & a farmer. Renee shares a little bit about how she has learned to live in the balance and set her days up for more "YES" and less stress & anxiety in her home! In this episode, Renee talks about her journey from being an elementary school teacher to fully embracing her role as a wife, mom, and farmer. We dive into the challenges of stepping into a multi-generational family farm and how she navigated that transition, especially working alongside her husband’s father and uncle. Renee also shares how motherhood shifted her role on the farm and how she learned to ask for help without guilt. From setting up systems like her "Farmer Fridays" to becoming more organized and finding ways to be productive rather than just busy, Renee gives us a real look into what it’s like to balance it all on a family farm. Her honesty about juggling farm duties, raising children, and prioritizing self-care is something every rural woman will relate to. In this episode with Renee Capko on Balancing Farming, Family, Motherhood, and Self, we cover: Renee’s transition from elementary teacher to full-time farmer and mom The challenges of stepping into a multi-generational family farm The impact of motherhood on farm life How Renee learned to ask for help and communicate her needs Planning life loosely to find balance and reduce stress Letting go of perfectionism and finding contentment Being a ‘yes wife’ and ‘yes mum’ The importance of rural women supporting each other Resources & Links: Grounded Farm Wife Journal Connect with Renee: Follow on Instagram Check out her podcast on Apple or Spotify Connect with Jessica: Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au Find the complete show notes here: https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/renee-capko
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    39 分
  • 012. Letting Go of Guilt: Real Life Talk on School Holidays

    012. Letting Go of Guilt: Real Life Talk on School Holidays
    2024/09/16
    On today’s episode of Cultivate Contentment, we're diving into the ever-challenging topic of balancing school holidays with farm life. As rural mums, we know that school holidays can be both a relief and a juggling act. With the kids out of school and farm work still in full swing, finding a rhythm that works for everyone can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I share my experiences and practical tips for managing this busy time while keeping the family dynamic in balance. We cover the reality of scheduling and balancing school holidays, from managing expectations and coordinating with other parents to creating a flexible routine that works for your family. I also talk about the unique challenges of living out of town, like the lack of local amenities and activities that are more accessible to urban families. Plus, I delve into the struggles of working from home or on the farm while the kids are home, and how to set boundaries around screen time to avoid letting it get out of hand. Whether you’re dealing with guilt over not being able to fill every day with activities, or just trying to find the right balance between work and family time, this episode is for you. Join me as we explore ways to make the most of school holidays without losing sight of what’s truly important. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many of us are in the same boat, and it’s all about finding what works best for your family and embracing the imperfect moments along the way. In this episode about Letting Go of Guilt: Real Life Talk on School Holidays, we cover: Managing Expectations and Scheduling: How to find the right balance between scheduling activities and allowing for downtime during school holidays. Tips for setting realistic expectations and managing your family’s calendar. Navigating Rural Challenges: Strategies for dealing with the lack of local amenities and activities when living out of town. How to coordinate with other parents and manage long commutes to ensure your kids have social opportunities. Balancing Work and Family Time: Practical advice for working from home or on the farm while managing the chaos of school holidays. How to set boundaries and create a flexible routine that accommodates both work and family needs. Dealing with Screen Time: Tips for setting healthy boundaries around screen time to avoid letting it get out of hand. How to establish screen time limits and create alternative activities to keep kids engaged. Handling Guilt and Expectations: Addressing the common guilt that comes with balancing work and family responsibilities. Insights on letting go of the need for perfection and embracing the reality of school holidays. Embracing Flexibility: The importance of being adaptable and finding joy in the imperfect moments. How to recognize that not every school holiday needs to be a grand adventure and that it’s okay to have days with no plans. Resources & Links: Grounded Farm Wife Journal Connect with Jessica: Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au Find the complete show notes here: https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/letting-go-of-guilt
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    20 分
  • 011. Spring on the Farm: Weather, Calves, and New Projects

    011. Spring on the Farm: Weather, Calves, and New Projects
    2024/09/09
    Episode Summary Today I share a seasonal update on life at the farm as we transition into spring. From unpredictable weather to crop updates, calves, and exciting new projects, get an inside look at what this time of year means for farming life. Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and tune in for an engaging chat that highlights both the challenges and the joys of spring on the farm. Spring is finally here, and I couldn’t be more relieved to leave winter behind. It’s been an intense few months, with the weather throwing everything at us—high winds, power outages, and even school closures. But now, as we step into spring, there’s this feeling of brighter times ahead. The winter bugs have taken their toll, but with warmer weather on the horizon, it feels like we’re turning a corner. This time of year is always unpredictable. The forecast is calling for a wet Spring, which we desperately need after a dry start to Winter. But, as every farmer knows, forecasts can be more of a guideline than a guarantee. We’re prepared to start early irrigation if the rain doesn’t come through, which is just another reminder of how varied farming can be across the country. Each region has its own challenges, and adaptability is key to surviving and thriving in this industry. We’ve got a lot going on with our crops and irrigation plans. This weekend, we’re planning our first cut of silage, aiming to store 500 tonnes of dry matter for the next year. It’s a big job, but it’s crucial for keeping our cows fed when the pastures aren’t as productive. On top of that, we’re managing a new lease block with oats and peas that should be ready to harvest by November. I’m hoping for a good yield—around 6 tons per hectare—which would be a great boost. The animal side of things is just as busy. We’re wrapping up calving season, with only a few special embryo cows left to go. We’re raising a versatile herd using a three-way breed mix, and it’s been exciting to see how well the calves are coming along. We’ve made some changes to our rearing practices, like tracking calf weights and using a new calf shed, which have really paid off. Our dairy operations are also at their peak right now, so it’s all hands on deck to keep everything running smoothly. Spring stock work is another big focus at the moment. We’ve got young stock that need drenching, and we’re keeping an eye out for seasonal illnesses like pink eye and issues caused by flies. Regular health checks are so important this time of year to keep the herd in top shape. And then there are the ongoing projects. We’ve taken on a new lease property and are in the middle of re-fencing it for the dairy cows. We’re also upgrading the irrigation system with pipe and riser setups, which should make a big difference. It’s a lot of work, but these projects are essential for keeping the farm running efficiently. As I wrap up this spring update, I’m reminded of how unpredictable yet rewarding farming can be. Every season brings its own set of challenges and joys, and it’s all part of the journey. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more updates. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends who might relate. And I’d love to hear about your own spring experiences on the farm—leave a comment or review to join the conversation! In this episode about “Spring on the Farm: Weather, Calves, and New Projects”, we cover: Spring Weather Impact: The importance of preparing for a potentially wet spring after a dry winter and the unpredictability of weather forecasts. Crop & Irrigation Plans: First silage cut planned, new lease block with oats and peas, and details on silage making and grazing strategies. Animal Update: End of calving season, focus on raising versatile cows, improved calf rearing practices, and peak dairy operations. Spring Stock Work: Drenching young stock, monitoring for seasonal illnesses, and the importance of regular health checks. Ongoing Projects: Re-fencing and upgrading irrigation on the new lease property, emphasizing the role of projects in maintaining farm operations. Resources & Links: Grounded Farm Wife Journal Connect with Jessica: Follow me on Instagram @groundedfarmwife Check out my website www.groundedfarmwife.com.au Find the complete show notes here: https://www.groundedfarmwife.com.au/podcast-1/spring-on-the-farm
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    18 分