The veterinarian, nutritionist, lawyer, accountant, breeder, fieldman, lender, mentor, sale representatives, etc. These people see all variations in management and know what works on other farms and what doesn't. Let these people be your guide. Use these people collectively on your individual advisory team. Next, set the same benchmarks that a successful producer would use.
Benchmarks are performance standards by which something can be measured or judged.
These are benchmarks. They tell where you have been and how much progress you are making over time. These become your measure of progress toward your destination. Next, set new goals for future benchmarks. In the event that you don't measure up to the benchmarks of the most successful producer, then figure out why.