Episode Summary

Ever feel like life is speeding past you while you’re stuck in a lay-by, wondering if you missed the memo?

In this episode of The Tea Mind Podcast, we pause for tea and unpack the habit of comparison. From a sunset in Morocco to science-backed insights on envy and self-worth, Erica explores how to shift your focus away from what others are doing and back to what matters.

This isn’t about chasing contentment. It’s about learning to notice what’s already here.

In this episode:

* Why comparison drains joy and energy

* What really happened on that picture-perfect Morocco trip

* The mindset shift Dean Furness used to redefine success after paralysis

* What psychology says about the real reason we compare

* A practical tea routine to help you stay grounded in your own life

Resources and Links

* Dean Furness TEDx Talk - “Redefining Your Personal Average”: Watch here

* SELF Magazine - “3 Things to Do When You Feel Like Everyone Else Is More Successful Than You”: Read here

* Subscribe to The Tea Mind Substack for free weekly insights and tea-based rituals

* Make sure you’re getting eteaket’s Tea Mail to be the first to discover our new tea, like Earl of Winter.

Thanks for joining me on our pause for tea to rebalance and thrive. If you enjoyed this post, it would make my day if you’d comment, hit the heart button or share it. Your actions will help me reach more people. Thanks for your support! ✨ Erica x

The Tea Mind is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Episode Summary

For three years, my podcast microphone sat untouched on my desk. I told myself I was preparing, but in truth, I was hiding.

This episode explores how perfectionism often disguises itself as productivity - the endless refining, researching and waiting for the perfect moment that never comes.

Through the lens of the Metal Element of Autumn, you will learn how to move from control to flow, from over-polishing to quiet progress. I share the story of how The Tea Mind began and how one imperfect recording changed everything.

Together, we brew a cup of Oolong tea and practise a short Tea Routine for Courage to help you take one small, real step forward before you feel ready.

Perfection keeps you waiting. Action helps you grow.

In this episode:

* How the Metal Element of Autumn can shift from rigidity to refinement.

* Why high standards can quietly turn into self-protection.

* How to find courage through movement rather than mastery.

* A simple three-minute Tea Routine for Courage using Yellow Gold Oolong or Orange Oolong Supreme to balance structure with surrender.

“The leaves can’t open until they meet the hot water. You can’t grow until you begin.”

Resources and Links

* Subscribe to The Tea Mind Substack for weekly insights and tea-based rituals

* Make sure you’re getting eteaket’s Tea Mail to be the first to discover seasonal teas, like Yellow Gold Oolong.

Thanks for joining me on our pause for tea to rebalance and thrive. If you enjoyed this post, it would make my day if you’d comment, hit the heart button or share it. Your actions will help me reach more people. Thanks for your support! ✨ Erica x

The Tea Mind is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Heads-up: This episode contains a little strong language. Because sometimes, only a swear word will do.

Episode Summary

What if you’re not stuck, you’re just thinking in a way that keeps you stuck?

In this honest and energising conversation, I sit down with Rebecca Bonnington, CEO and Founder of Tricres, to explore how we can shift our thinking, lead with clarity and create change that sticks.

Rebecca isn’t just a leadership coach. She trains the coaches who train the leaders. Her background spans decades in business, leadership, NLP and personal transformation. And she’s not afraid to say what others won’t.

You’ll learn:

* How NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) can help you shift out of stuck patterns

* Why many of your beliefs may not even be yours

* The truth about burnout and business ego

* How to lead yourself when everything feels uncertain

* A 3-minute mental reset you can use while your tea brews

We also talk about healing, motherhood, divorce and resilience. This one’s not just about leadership. It’s about life.

“You’re the thinker of your own thoughts. And that means you get to decide what lives in your head.” – Rebecca Bonnington

Tea Mind Prompt

While your tea brews, try this:

* Place your tongue just behind the roof of your mouth

* Breathe slowly and intentionally

* Let your mind go quiet, even for a few seconds

This NLP-inspired pause helps quiet your nervous system and brings you into the present moment.

Mentioned in this Episode

* Tricres – Kick Ass Culture Coaching: tricres.com

* Rebecca’s book: How to Outshine the Rest and The Best Selling Coach

* Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari

* Deepak Chopra’s Abundance: The Inner Path To Wealth

Resources and Links

* Subscribe to The Tea Mind Substack for weekly insights and tea-based rituals

* Make sure you’re getting eteaket’s Tea Mail to be the first to discover our new tea, like Pumpkin Chai.

Thanks for joining me on our pause for tea to rebalance and thrive. 🍵 If you enjoyed this post, it would make my day if you’d comment, hit the heart button or share it. Your actions will help me reach more people. Thanks for your support! ✨ Erica x

The Tea Mind is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.