The Joy of Baking: How a Winter Project Led to Self-Discovery and Confidence
As a long-time fan of The Great British Bake-Off, I’ve always been fascinated by the artistry, structure, and kindness that define the show. On my latest rewatch, I found myself inspired to recreate the intricate breads and pastries I saw on screen. But I knew that merely dreaming about becoming a bread master wouldn’t cut it – I needed a plan.
A Winter of Baking
I created a list of a dozen breads and bakes I wanted to try, and set out to tackle one every weekend during the cold, dark winter months. This project was designed to scratch a creative itch and keep the winter blues at bay. And it worked! I stuck to my schedule, baking something new almost every weekend, and shared my creations with friends and colleagues.
Lessons Learned
- Taking the First Step
Starting a new project can be daunting, but it’s often the simplest step that gets us moving. I spent weeks preparing, but eventually, I just had to begin. And that’s when the magic happened. Remember, the first step is rarely glamorous, but it’s essential to making progress.
- Scheduling Small Steps
Breaking down a large project into smaller, manageable tasks makes it feel less overwhelming. By dedicating a half-day each week to baking, I was able to accomplish far more than I thought possible. This approach can be applied to any goal, whether personal or professional.
- It’s Not as Hard as You Think
Sometimes, we put off tasks because we assume they’re too difficult. But often, taking a deep breath, reading the instructions, and giving it a try is all it takes. I was intimidated by the eight-strand plaited loaf, but with careful planning and execution, I produced a stunning result.
- Confidence is Transferable
As I tackled more challenging bakes, my confidence grew. I began to experiment with new recipes and techniques, and even applied this newfound confidence to other areas of my life, such as work and finance. Remember, if you can do one hard thing, you can do more.
- The Power of Sharing
Sharing our creations, whether food or otherwise, has the power to bring people together. I had countless joyful conversations with friends and colleagues over my baked goods, and it brought me immense satisfaction. Generosity comes in many forms, and even small acts can have a significant impact.
The Payoff
My winter baking project yielded far more than just delicious bread. It taught me valuable lessons about taking the first step, scheduling small tasks, and building confidence. And it reminded me of the joy of sharing with others. I highly recommend setting a kitchen goal and embracing the process – you never know where it might lead you.
About the Author
Maggie Olson is a marketing professional living in northeast Ohio. When she’s not baking or working, you can find her hiking, biking, running, or kayaking. Follow her on Twitter at @maggiebolson.
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