Steeping

Why T.E.A?

No one really enjoys the feeling of being under pressure. When I'm under pressure, I just need to be alone. Not for a long period, but just a few minutes to think, breathe, and refocus. My time away is my steeping time. According to registered dietician Anne Danahy (2020), regardless of the type of tea being used, all variations require a steeping period. How long tea steeps is important to the boldness of the flavor and effects it has on the human body. Humm…that sounds like us, right? Leadership is an ugly business. We love to doll up our actions with terms like transformative, transactional, and servant; the fact of the matter is without authenticity, does any of those terms matter? Authentic leadership is recognizing how long you need to steep. Not knowing your required steeping time correlates to dismissing subordinates, taking on the boss mentality (insert eye roll), and just making folks around you miserable. Poor steeping habits degrade your value to the team. If you’re an entrepreneur, your poor steeping habits can be blocking your creativity. The two most important aspects of steeping tea (time and temperature) can be applied to what we do every day. Set aside at least five minutes a day to steep. Take that business call while on a walk (of course in a safe area). Connect with your temperament. Instead of asking “why” simply replace the word with “how” or “what” and see what you come up with. A good cup of tea will work wonders for your body. Be a good cup of tea to your dreams and aspirations. Until next time…. Sip away.

Source: Danahy, Anne. (2020). How to steep tea like an expert. How to Steep Tea Like an Expert (healthline.com).