The Entrepreneur’s Perspective: Why Time Is More Than Money

The Entrepreneur’s Perspective: Why Time Is More Than Money

As an entrepreneur, I often hear the same question: “Are you counting your time? You need to pay yourself for your hours worked.” It’s a valid question, but it doesn’t feel like it applies in the same way when you’re running your own business. When you’re working for someone else, every hour you put in is measured by the paycheck you take home. But when you’re building something of your own—like The Classic Luxury Cheesecake Company—those hours take on a whole new meaning.

Here’s why I see it differently:

Time as an Investment

When I’m in the kitchen, perfecting recipes or packaging orders, I’m not just working; I’m investing. Every moment spent crafting cheesecakes, refining processes, or even managing the less glamorous parts of the business contributes to something bigger: the future of my company. These hours aren’t just about immediate returns—they’re about laying the foundation for growth, creating an exceptional product, and building relationships with my customers.

Passion Fuels the Work

Let’s be honest: not every task in a business is fun. There’s cleaning up after a long bake, handling inventory, and the never-ending admin work. But when you’re building something you’re passionate about, even the less exciting tasks feel purposeful. Every effort contributes to delivering the perfect cheesecake experience, and that’s something I take pride in.

The Real Value of Time

Some people think of time only in terms of dollars and cents, but I see it as an opportunity to create something special. Sure, I could calculate an hourly rate for myself, but that would miss the bigger picture. The work I’m doing now isn’t just about earning a paycheck—it’s about building a legacy, creating joy for my customers, and sharing something I’m proud of with the community.

The Balance Between Passion and Practicality

That said, entrepreneurship isn’t just about working endlessly. It’s about knowing when to hustle and when to step back. I’ve learned that it’s important to track my time and evaluate how I spend it. Some tasks are worth my energy, while others might be better outsourced in the future as the business grows. It’s all part of maximizing what I call the return on time—ensuring every moment contributes meaningfully to my goals.

Building Something Bigger

At the end of the day, the hours I put into The Classic Luxury Cheesecake Company aren’t just about baking cheesecakes; they’re about creating an experience. From the first bite of a creamy, perfectly baked New York cheesecake to the delight of customizing toppings, my time is spent delivering joy. And that’s something no hourly rate could ever measure.

So, the next time someone asks me if I’m paying myself for my time, I’ll say this: I’m doing something even better. I’m building a company I believe in, sharing incredible cheesecakes with my community, and creating something that’s so much more than just a paycheck.

Sincerely,
Jeff Butler
The Classic Luxury Cheesecake Company