Nicole Bensen

the Tea Time blog

Welcome to

Someone asked why this weekly note to you is called “Tea Time,” and since I recently went to a cute* tea place, it’s the perfect time to explain. I’ve always enjoyed the fancy fun a tea party brings—dressing up and donning a feather fascinator (I’ve been known to wear a fascinator on a random day, […]

Last week I was leading a workshop, and we were talking about strengths and passions, and ways we can use those at work—even when it seems those might not be related to the job—which led to us talking about a job vs. career. For example, I love event planning, so when I was a recruiter, […]

When I was a kid, my school had candy bar fundraisers.   Did you ever have to go door-to-door selling something, or stand outside Target asking people, “Hi, would you like to buy a candy bar for a dollar?” (Side question: have candy bar prices not changed in 30 years, or were we just charging a […]

When I saw this tow truck pulling a fire truck a couple of weeks ago, the first thought that popped into my mind was, “Even rescuers need rescuing.” Who are you a “rescuer” for? You might be a caregiver to kids, your parents or in-laws, your work team, or even in a caregiving profession, like […]

Me: Should I get my tongue pierced first, or my belly button?Friend: Do them both!Me: Or should I do my ear cartilage?Friend: DO IT ALL! In my 20’s I loved riding my motorcycle, baking, cuddling my pets, meeting up with my friends for dinner at 9:00, and having conversations like the above. Present day me […]

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine you’re currently living the life you’ve dreamt of…whatever that means to you. What would be different about your day? What would you prioritize? How would you spend your time? Your money? Your energy?  Here’s my challenge to you: Choose something you would do in your dream life […]

People who took photos in nature for a couple weeks straight felt happier and more connected with others and their environment.

Mental health tools that work when you’re having a rough day at the office or an unplanned c-section (or anything in between)

Close your eyes, and imagine it’s the morning of December 31, 2022. You feel grateful, happy, and proud of what you’ve accomplished this year. What pops into your mind?

5 steps in 5 minutes to improve the likelihood of accomplishing your goals (no matter how big!)