Year end is an excellent time to take a break from the daily routine and re-evaluate longer term farm goals and business performance. The link below takes you to an excellent site at Purdue University that has a self study course on:

Measuring and Analyzing Farm Financial Performance
http://www.agecon.purdue.edu/extension/programs/fbm21/perform.htm

For producers without the time to fully analyze their farm business, at least complete a balance sheet as of December 31st every year. With a year-end balance sheet from several years, you will have an excellent benchmark to demonstrate your farm's financial progress to lenders and other stakeholders. Balance sheet templates may be found at: http://agebb.missouri.edu/modbu/archives/v2n1/index.htm