Even in the best of times farm managers often need to balance competing factors as they navigate volatile markets, weather, environmental sustainability and their own health and well being. These challenges are exaggerated greatly in times of natural disaster and, currently, prolonged drought.

Farmers are encouraged to be resilient, adaptable and innovative while trying to maintain a sustainable business and family life in ever changing times - a tall order.

While each farmer's circumstance is unique, a common factor determining life and business success is the poorly understood skill of decision making. It is often overlooked that success in farming generally relies on good judgement - and maybe a splash of luck.

The Grain Research and Development Corporation's 'Grain and Graze' report shows, "the only real difference between the top 20 per cent of profitable farmers and the rest of the industry is their ability to make the right decision at the right time."

Upper Lachlan Landcare Grazing Group convenor and grazier, Paul Hewitt, has witnessed first-hand what he terms "decision paralysis" among some producers, who have delayed making the decision to de-stock during the past year of very tough seasonal conditions.

In response, a workshop on developing decision making skills and understanding the personal factors that influence choice, will be conducted by NSW Department of Primary Industries rural resilience officer, Ted O'Kane.

The workshop will be held Thursday, April 4 from 9.30-11.30am at the Crookwell CWA rooms.

Mr Hewitt said that it is evident that some producers struggle to make and action well-reasoned decisions as the drought intensified and their options diminished. 

"Normally good operators became over-whelmed with the stress and uncertainty, along with the emotional burden of being faced with selling highly valued livestock. Sometimes it seemed virtually impossible to take control and make a decision," he said.

"Proactive decision making in line with the group's principles... provided much needed direction and helped some avoid potential disaster.

"We want to provide an opportunity to better understand the science and psychology behind being able to make good, well-reasoned management decisions and recognise that stress and personality can sometimes work against the best outcome."