Finding Time for Myself
As a mom and cottage baker, my life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of flour, frosting, and the never-ending dance of family life. From early mornings spent in the kitchen preparing the day’s bake orders to evenings full of bedtime stories and making sure everyone’s needs are met, it often feels like there’s barely a moment to breathe. So, when do I find the time for myself?
Let me be clear: it’s not easy. In fact, it's one of the hardest things I do. But over the years, I’ve realized that taking time to do the things I love—whether it's baking just for fun, getting lost in a good book, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in peace—isn’t just a luxury. It’s essential for my mental and emotional well-being.
1. It’s More Than Just “Me Time” — It’s Self-Care
My days often blend together in a blur of caregiving, cooking, and catering. It’s easy to get lost in the demands of others, constantly trying to fulfill everyone’s needs. But if I’m being honest, I’ve learned the hard way that putting myself last isn’t sustainable.
As moms, we tend to think of self-care as selfish. The truth is, though, self-care is necessary—and it comes in many forms. For me, self-care is found in my kitchen, with my hands covered in dough, the oven warm and ready, and the smell of freshly baked bread filling the air. It’s that moment when I’m not thinking about anything else, just focusing on the task at hand, allowing myself to enjoy the rhythm of mixing ingredients, rolling out dough, and seeing the beautiful end product of my efforts. That’s my version of peace.
When I give myself this space, I’m not only nurturing my love for baking; I’m also taking care of my emotional health. I’m recharging so that I can show up as the best mom and baker possible. A little bit of time for myself allows me to be more present, patient, and happy when I return to the family fold.
2. You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup
I know firsthand how it feels to be pulled in a million directions at once. Between managing my bakery business, making sure the kids are fed and happy, working a full-time office job, and keeping the house running smoothly, I sometimes feel like there’s nothing left for me at the end of the day. But here’s the thing I’ve realized: when I neglect myself, I’m not doing anyone any favors.
The constant grind wears me out physically, mentally, and emotionally. I start to feel resentful or overwhelmed, which isn’t fair to my family or my customers. Taking time to do something I love—whether it’s reading a book with a glass of wine, catching up on a Netflix show, or even just taking a quiet walk around the block—fills me up in ways that nothing else can. And when I’m full, I’m better equipped to pour love, energy, and care into my family and my business. I’m more patient, more creative, and more energized.
It’s like the saying goes: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” When I take time to fill my own cup, I have more to give to others.
3. Rediscovering Joy Through the Simple Things
As a cottage baker, I’m always creating—cakes, cookies, pastries, and LOTS of bread. While I love my work, it can sometimes feel like a never-ending list of orders to fulfill. But one thing I’ve learned is that there’s a special kind of magic in baking just for fun. When I bake for myself, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with baking in the first place: the joy of experimenting with new recipes, playing with flavors, and watching something simple transform into something beautiful.
Finding time for these moments of creativity and personal joy—without any external pressure—gives me a sense of fulfillment that I can’t get from the business side of things. It’s a reminder that my passions still matter, even if they’ve gotten lost in the shuffle of everyday life. Whether it’s trying a new sourdough recipe or making cookies with my kids just for fun, these small acts of self-expression help me reconnect with myself and rediscover the simple joys that originally sparked my love for baking.
4. Modeling Healthy Boundaries for My Kids
I want my kids to grow up knowing that it’s okay to take time for themselves and that it’s important to pursue things that bring them joy. If I’m constantly running on empty, neglecting my passions and needs, what kind of message does that send? Showing my children that self-care is important teaches them to prioritize their own well-being, too.
By finding time to do the things I love—whether that’s taking a few quiet moments to enjoy a glass or red wine, sit outside and listen to the meadowlarks, or getting creative in the kitchen—I’m setting an example for my kids about healthy boundaries. I want them to know that it’s not selfish to take time for yourself; it’s essential. It’s how we stay whole, balanced, and happy.
5. It Makes Me a Better Baker (and Mom!)
Here’s the thing: when I neglect my own needs and desires, everything suffers. My patience runs thin, my creativity becomes stifled, and my energy fizzles out. But when I make space for myself, I find that I am more present, more focused, and more energized. I’m better at running my bakery, and I’m better at being a mom.
My best work happens when I’ve taken the time to care for myself, whether that’s through a hobby, rest, or a quiet moment. I approach both my business and my family life with more love and intention, which ultimately benefits everyone.
Final Thoughts
Life as a mom and baker is a delicate balance between giving and receiving. The truth is, we can’t be everything to everyone if we don’t take care of ourselves. Making time for the things I love, whether it’s baking just for the joy of it, relaxing with a good book, or enjoying a few moments of silence, allows me to show up for my family and my business in the best way possible.
It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary. If you’re a mom, a baker, or anyone juggling multiple roles, remember this: you deserve time for yourself. Taking those moments to do what you love isn’t selfish—it’s an investment in your happiness, your health, and your ability to be the best version of yourself for those you love.