The Long Game: Why "Hitting Singles" is the Best Strategy for Farmers In 2026

In the world of business—and especially in agriculture—the people who win long-term aren't necessarily the ones who had the biggest year in 2021. They are the ones who are still in the game ten, twenty, and fifty years later.

Too many producers are obsessed with hitting the "home run." They want the massive expansion, the brand-new fleet, or the record-breaking yield right now. But if you focus on winning the game too early or trying to force a "hero year" when the economy isn't on your side, you’re going to strike out. And in this industry, striking out often means losing the farm.

The 2026 Playbook: Focus on the Singles

Look at the economy around us. It’s not great. Input costs are "sticky," margins are thin, and the bank is watching every move. This is not the time for ego-driven purchases or high-stakes gambles.

The successful producers we work with are shifting their strategy to "hitting singles":

• Patience over Purchase: They aren't looking at big equipment upgrades or land acquisitions this year just for the sake of "growth."
• Consistent Returns: They are focused on a steady, reliable return on the equity already sitting on their balance sheet.
• Bank Credibility: They are using this time to build massive trust with their lender by over-delivering on their financial promises.

The "Cash Out" Lesson of 2021

We saw this play out clearly back in 2021. When prices started to climb, the impulse in the ag industry was to go out and spend. I told our group the exact opposite:

"Cash out. Pay your taxes. Hold onto your liquidity. Do not buy things you don't need."

We all know the temptation. In ag, we are guilty of buying "shiny objects" the second we have a good year. But the ones who listened to that advice? They are in an incredible position today. While their neighbors are stressed about renewals and high-interest debt, our members are sitting on cash, waiting for the right moment.

Preparation is the Ultimate Leverage

Slow and steady isn't about being "small"; it’s about being ready. When the overall economy shifts—and it will—and grain prices start to climb again, the producers who spent 2026 hitting singles will be in a position to act ten times faster than everyone else. They won't be begging the bank for permission; they’ll be dictating the terms because they have the structure and the cash to back it up.

Are You Positioned for the Turn?

Success in 2026 is measured by how well you protect your foundation. If you spend your energy trying to hit a home run in a down market, you won't be around when the bases are actually loaded.

Stop guessing. Start building a durable legacy.