My 2026 Word of the Year: How It Shapes My Bakery Dreams

Every year, instead of setting a long list of resolutions that feel overwhelming by February, I choose one word—a word that becomes my guide, my filter, and my quiet reminder of who I’m becoming.

For 2026, my word is Elevate.

Not hustle.
Not rush.
Not pressure.

Elevate.

And this word is already changing how I see my bakery dreams, how I plan, and how I show up for Dot’s Petite Bakery Co.


Why I Choose a Word Instead of Resolutions

Resolutions focus on doing more.
A word focuses on becoming more.

When I choose a word, I’m choosing alignment over noise and intention over comparison. A word follows you into every decision—big or small.

For me, Elevate means:

  • Raising my standards without losing my softness
  • Treating my bakery like the business and legacy it is
  • Moving with purpose instead of urgency

This word isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing things better.


What “Elevate” Looks Like for My Bakery in 2026

Dot’s Petite Bakery Co. has always been rooted in comfort, nostalgia, and care. Elevating doesn’t mean losing that—it means honoring it at a higher level.

Here’s how Elevate is shaping my bakery dreams this year:


🍰 Elevated Baking

I’m not baking just to bake—I’m baking with intention and pride.

That looks like:

  • Cleaner flavor concepts
  • Seasonal menus that feel thoughtful
  • Desserts that tell a story, not just fill a box

Every bake reflects growth—not just in skill, but in confidence.


📝 Elevated Planning

Elevating my bakery means elevating how I prepare.

Instead of winging things, I’m:

  • Planning bakes ahead of time
  • Tracking what works and what sells
  • Using planners, vision boards, and reflections to stay focused

Preparation is part of elevation—it creates peace and consistency.


🎥 Elevated Content

Not everything needs to be posted. Not everything needs to be explained.

Elevated content means:

  • Quality over quantity
  • Storytelling over trends
  • Sharing the why, not just the what

I want my content to feel intentional, calm, and aligned with the brand I’m building—not rushed or forced.


💭 Elevated Growth

Growth doesn’t always mean bigger—it means better.

In 2026, elevation looks like:

  • One farmers market done exceptionally well
  • Digital products that truly serve other bakers
  • Systems that support my life, not consume it

I’m giving myself permission to grow with grace.


Letting My Word Guide My Decisions

Whenever I feel unsure or stretched too thin, I ask myself:

“Does this elevate my bakery—or distract me from it?”

That single question helps me:

  • Say no with confidence
  • Move slower without guilt
  • Choose alignment over pressure

Elevate isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress with purpose.


Carrying This Word With Me All Year

I see my word on my vision board.
I write it inside my planner.
I return to it when doubt creeps in.

Because Dot’s Petite Bakery Co. deserves to be built with intention, pride, and care—just like the recipes and memories that inspired it.

Here’s to an elevated 2026—one cozy, confident step at a time. 🤍✨