Baking with Love

Wena Cabahug shares how she runs her bakery with love.

How do we seek the good of others through our business? By pouring our heart into our work, says Wena Cabahug. She runs Martha's Bakery, which she started with her husband Noel. "Martha" combines the names of their daughters - Mary Gabrielle and Talitha Anne.

My mother always reminded us, “Always seek the good of others by being humble and kind.” That constant reminder made a deep impact on my young mind, and until now, it remains a part of who I am.

Seeking the good of others is not one big trait — instead, it is a set of practiced choices. As a bakery owner, I start with a mindset to serve people, not just to sell products. Every day, I remind myself that for every bread baked and sold, there is a person — someone celebrating, comforting a loved one, needing a small moment of joy, or simply trying to satisfy a hungry tummy. With these thoughts, I approach my work with care and purpose.

Even in dealing with my employees, I try to be patient and empathize with what they are going through. I have learned that people work better when they feel respected, understood, and valued.

In seeking the good of others, empathy is important. Not just “being nice,” but truly trying to listen well and understand what the other person is dealing with. This lets me respond in a way that genuinely helps.

With humility, I can accept feedback, learn from mistakes, and treat both customers and employees with respect. I do not assume I know everything, so I remain open to improvement.

A service mindset guides me. I ask myself, “What does this person need right now?” From the quality of ingredients to the cleanliness of the shop, I aim to give my clients the best for their needs.

I also believe that patience under pressure, consistency in small actions, and accountability are important. It is easy to be kind when things are smooth, but the real test comes during stressful and difficult moments. Choosing to stay calm and showing up consistently create a lasting impact on others.

In the end, seeking the good of others is not only about words. It is shown through daily actions, humility, kindness, and genuine care for the people around us.

How can you put more of your heart into your work?