Growth with growing.
Overcoming Struggles with Daily Rituals: Jenny Jefferies on Good Farming.
On this week’s Brave New Girls podcast, I speak with Jenny Jefferies- award-winning author, columnist and radio presenter- whose powerful voice champions our food producers focusing on farming, fishing, and food sustainability.
Jenny gives voice to farmers and fishermen and women and their challenges, through her books- For the Love of the Land, For the Love of the Sea, and Islands In A Common Sea- but like so many women juggling family, career and purpose, she has her own daily struggles.
As a mother of two young children, a farmer’s wife, and a tireless campaigner, Jenny admits that she didn’t always have a clear path or sense of direction. “I was a bit of a lost soul,” she shares. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do until I met John [her husband].” Even then, life on a farm brought unexpected challenges, isolation, and the pressure of adapting to a completely new way of life.
But Jenny’s journey has taught her that wellbeing isn’t about having it all figured out- it’s about showing up for what matters, and learning to take care of yourself along the way.
Jenny credits her resilience to the support of a loving family and a circle of strong friendships. “To be present for my children, and to reconnect with my family- that’s what makes me happy more than anything.” She also values the little things: good food, the occasional glass of wine, time away from screens, and the ability to slow down when everything around her feels fast.
Her wellbeing practices remind us that self-care can be simple, relational, and human, quietly choosing presence over perfection.
Do you want to join our next Brave New Girls Wellbeing Growth Retreat? Find out more.
Talk to Lou Hamilton- Your Wellbeing Coach
Ten Actionable Steps for Building Wellbeing
Create connection rituals – Share a meal, call a friend, or send a kind message to someone you care about each day.
Make space for joy – Prioritise small daily pleasures that lift your spirit—music, laughter, a walk in nature.
Be honest about your needs – Check in with yourself regularly. What do you need more of? Less of? Speak it out loud.
Let go of perfection – Focus on doing your best, not being the best. Real growth comes from trying, not mastering.
Honour your roots – Reflect on your personal journey. What has shaped you? Who helped you become who you are?
Rest without guilt – Schedule downtime the way you would an important meeting. It’s essential, not indulgent.
Surround yourself with good people – Build a support system of those who uplift and accept you.
Celebrate your wins—big or small – Did you show up today? That counts. Keep a journal of progress and pride.
Find purpose in your pain – Use challenges as fuel for compassion and connection, just as Jenny does in her advocacy work.
Keep showing up – Even when it’s hard, even when you feel like quitting. Growth is found in the showing up.
Jenny Jefferies reminds us that wellbeing is about presence, support, and finding strength in the simple things-growth starts right where you are.
If you have worries around life’s juggles & health challenges, and want to grow a healthier, happier, more creative life, work with your Wellbeing Coach Lou Hamilton who will guide you through the steps you need to take, to get to where you want to be- living well on a well planet.
See which bespoke coaching programme works for you & we can tailor them further to your growth needs.
