I have recently started a new job, it is going well so far. I have a lot to learn as it is quite a different approach to what I have been doing. I am excited for the new challenge and to learn more, and to get the brain to go sideways and round and round a bit more again.

I have talked about my work a little on here in some ways before – but now, after nearly fifteen years I have left Dunbia as the Agriculture Manager for Lamb, to turn my hand to something new.

I was not surprised that I was very emotional when it came to leaving Dunbia. I have learnt so much, made friends (ones I want to keep in touch with after I leave, proper friends) and had such a wide variety of experiences it has all been invaluable. I said when I handed my notice in that I have grown up at Dunbia (Llanybydder) – I have, I start when I was 26 and now, I am 41 – and they are years when a lot of life chapters happen, so I really have grown up during my time there. I was still a YFC member when I started and now I can’t even qualify as an associate member!

Despite all the reminiscing, it is time for a change, a new challenge, and one came along that was very interesting, where I can hopefully use my skills and knowledge in a new way and so here I am. Exciting times!

New job title: Agri Supply Chain Advisor

New role: Opportunities to work with farmers, supply chain businesses and public bodies – very exciting!

New company: Rural Advisor – currently a team of six people, but growing

I know I like change; I think I am the only person in the office who got excited the day we were told we had to change desks – brilliant – new perspective! Liking change means I am genuinely excited about my new role (terrified and nervous too) and so I have been surprised at how many people have said to me how brave they think I am – it hasn’t crossed my mind that it is brave. I wasn’t sure how to take it when a younger colleague said that they admired my bravery at this stage in my life – I will go for compliment!

Along with the new role, I have also become a partner with my parents for the sheep flock at home – this too is very exciting, likely to be challenging as well (but what is life without a challenge hey?!) so there will be more posts on sheep coming soon…the work has already begun so wish us luck!

I thought I would write just a little piece here about change, and how it is easy to embrace, but it is very individual, and life experiences will put different situations into different contexts so best we don’t judge, rather encourage and support. I think – what is the worst that can happen? If I can handle that or manage that risk, then I take the chance on change.

I never write these posts in one go – it takes a few attempts, and a bit of time. I have actually gone through a few emotions since I started writing it. One of these, not surprisingly, was being a bit overwhelmed. I like new things – but I thought I would just sit and write down what was new, and there was a really long list! I gave myself a break and got myself back in order again. It really was that easy – it is all about perspective. I felt like there was loads to learn, lots of new things flying around in my head- as well as all the ideas for the future of life, the job, the farm, everything! I decided that I couldn’t do it all at once, so sat down and did a mind map and a list, sectioned everything and put them in order of priority. Everything is achievable again…. yeah!!

I am a good three months into my new job now, still miss the people, but I have no regrets.

You don’t need to be brave for change – follow your gut instincts, and go for it!

Thank you for reading x