Being a baker

Being a baker, whether professional or at home, is a passion! It's not something just anyone can dive into and thrive. Even with all the training and knowledge, it doesn't automatically make you a baker. Over the years, I've witnessed people with formal education or bakery experience who simply couldn't stick with it. Some bakeries open their doors at the crack of dawn, while most people are still snug in bed. The truly remarkable bakeries are demanding; although not all require early starts, they do demand a lot of multitasking and long hours, especially during the bustling holiday season!

The industry is undergoing an exciting transformation! While it has a history of being rather toxic, those days are rapidly disappearing. The younger workforce is making it clear that such behavior won't be tolerated, and the "middle-aged" workers are embracing the importance of work-life balance. Even at my workplace, I've noticed a remarkable shift. My boss, who has worked tirelessly over the years, is actively adapting his management style to these positive changes. It's important to remember, though, that success in baking requires true passion. Without it, burnout happens quickly, as I've observed with various pastry assistants over the years. You can always spot those who are genuinely passionate about baking—they're the ones constantly striving to improve themselves.

I absolutely love the world of baking with all its possibilities! I thrive on experimenting with a wide variety of bakes, and I can't stand the question, "What's your favorite thing to bake?" Trying out different techniques and flavors is such an exciting adventure, allowing me to discover which methods are the most efficient. Although I work at a bakery and follow the owner's preferred techniques, it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn something new that I can apply in the future. Even though I'm not currently seeking a new job or planning to leave the bakery, I believe it's essential to keep improving and pushing yourself to new heights!

I keep myself buzzing with excitement by diving into cookbooks from renowned pastry chefs and bakers! Exploring these books gives me fascinating insights into their journeys to success. Plus, I love staying on top of the latest trends by reading The Pastry Arts magazine and listening to their podcasts. Engaging with the baking world beyond the daily grind is my secret to fueling passion and dodging burnout. I might not bake every week outside of the bakery, and sometimes I whip up simple treats just for fun, but my enthusiasm and drive are ever-present. I'm constantly on the hunt for new ways to sharpen my skills and expand my knowledge!

Passion and the willingness to learn is the key to success in this world, especially in a bakery kitchen.