When I'm busy working in real estate in Dallas, the day often passes by so quickly that I hardly notice it. From morning meetings, showing houses, reviewing contracts, to the increasingly worsening traffic, there are times when I get so caught up that I forget what I'm even doing.

During those times, what I seek is not something grand, but simply a cup of tea. Sometimes it's a refreshing iced coffee from Starbucks, and other times it's a sweet matcha or herbal tea. Holding the cup in my hand and sitting quietly to catch my breath feels like a significant break for me.

In fact, at our age, it's easy to think that running non-stop is a virtue, but there comes a moment when we realize that our bodies and minds are not what they used to be. What used to be no problem for me to stay up all night now leaves me exhausted for days after just one long day, and I become sensitive to small stresses, losing my focus.

At times like this, what's important is 'me time,' and the moments spent sipping tea serve that purpose very well. It's not just the act of putting something in my mouth; it's a moment to pause, reflect, and breathe.

When I drink tea and look out the window, I strangely find that my mind clears. The tension and fatigue that have built up don't disappear, but at least I feel reassured that 'it's okay, I can do this again.'

The real estate market changes daily, competition is fierce, and customer expectations are high, so I inevitably live under constant pressure. However, thanks to that brief moment of sipping tea, I regain the strength to smile again and can present a calm demeanor in front of clients.

Another benefit is that the time spent with a cup of tea helps me find 'my own rhythm.' When I'm overwhelmed with back-to-back meetings and tasks from the morning, I often just gulp down coffee instead of having lunch, but when I consciously take 'tea time,' my day changes. Even just 10 minutes of putting down my phone and enjoying tea clears my mind and gives me the focus I need. It may seem like a small routine, but I feel it becomes a support that sustains my day.

Moreover, my solitary tea time often sparks surprisingly creative ideas. Strategies for client consultations, new marketing ideas, and even home decor advice often come to me during those moments of leisure. Pausing for a moment instead of pushing through the busyness can lead to more effective results.

I believe that living in a city as large and fast-paced as Dallas can make one unknowingly speed up. However, the more that happens, the more we need moments of 'stopping.' Having a cup of tea and taking time for myself is not a luxury but a necessity. Both body and mind need to recover together to sustain a long run, and that's how I can provide sincere service to my clients.

The time spent with a cup of tea is more than just a beverage; it's a necessary 'pause for the heart' for adults. A small habit of taking care of oneself amidst a busy life can make the entire life healthier and more relaxed.