I think most of us overthink this! I did the opposite of what most people tell you to do and my loaf turned out better than ever.

So, i decided to just wing it with this bread and i've never made such an amazing piece of sourdough. I did 5 sets of stretch and folds, let it bulk ferment on the counter overnight, worked with it alot while shaping it, put it in the fridge for maybe an hour before my husband got too eager to try it so i baked it in a dutch oven for 30 minutes on 250°C, and then 15 minutes more without the lid! It turned out so crispy but also very fluffy, i'm probably eating the whole bread when i get home. Just your reminder to not overthink things too much! It's supposed to be fun, and a failed loaf isn't the end of the world ☺️