“Dear Younger Me: A Cup of Wisdom from Miss Liz”

Elizabeth Gagnon
May 5
3 min read

Advice I’d Give Myself to Build a Purpose-Driven Coaching Business

Welcome to the tea table, where transformation brews slowly, stories steep deeply, and self-investment is always on the menu.

If I could sit across from my younger self—tea in hand, heart wide open—I’d offer her one simple truth:

“You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. Just trust your T-E-A: Transparency, Education, Awareness.”

In the early days of building Miss Liz’s Tea, I believed success meant being flawless and fast. What I learned is that success doesn’t come from speed or strategy—it comes from soul—from showing up honestly, serving boldly, and building something real from the inside out.

So today, I’m pouring a full cup of reflection for anyone dreaming of building a coaching or service-based business rooted in purpose, passion, and people.

1. Lead with Your T-E-A: Transparency, Education, Awareness

Your story is your superpower, not your script. Being transparent about your journey, educating through your experience, and raising awareness about what truly matters has far more impact than any pitch deck.

Your vulnerability will create value.

Your voice will create vision.

Start there. Stay there.

2. Your Story Is the Strategy

I once thought I needed the “perfect business plan.” What I needed was to own my story.

Because stories connect. They teach. They shift perspectives. When I embraced storytelling as the foundation of my brand, everything opened up—partnerships, clients, even global conversations.

If you’re wondering what to offer the world, start with your narrative. There’s healing, hope, and guidance in your voice.

3. Plant Seeds, Don’t Just Sell

We live in a world of instant gratification. But building a sustainable business means thinking like a gardener, not a gatekeeper.

Water your relationships.

Nurture your vision.

Let your presence speak louder than your pitch.

What you plant in presence will bloom in purpose.

4. Stay Rooted in Purpose, Not Popularity

Chasing the crowd will eventually leave you empty. Chasing purpose? That fills your cup every time.

Your people will find you when you stay true to what matters most.

Not everyone is your audience—and that’s a blessing. Focus on the souls you’re meant to serve.

5. Growth Is Uncomfortable—Lean In Anyway

There were days I wanted to give up. Days I didn’t recognize the woman in the mirror. But now I know: every growing season starts with discomfort.

Don’t run from it—breathe through it. That stretch you’re feeling? It’s your next level arriving.

6. Relationships > Revenue

The heart of my business isn’t my products—it’s people. Every collaboration, every podcast guest, every tea shared in truth has built deeper trust than any funnel ever could.

Connection is the currency that never crashes.

Invest in your community, not just your numbers.

7. Let It Evolve

You’re allowed to change. Your business is allowed to change.

Miss Liz’s Tea evolved because I did.

If your message grows with you, your brand will always remain relevant.

Let your work reflect your becoming.

8. Rest Is a Strategy

I used to think the rest was weakness. Now I know—it’s wisdom.

Stillness creates clarity.

Take breaks. Reflect. Pour into your cup. That’s when the most creative ideas and aligned choices flow.

9. Build Your Circle with Intention

Business is a lot more joyful—and sustainable—when you’re surrounded by the right energy.

Seek mentors, collaborators, and friends who honour your vision. Release what drains you. Protect your peace like your business depends on it—because it does.

10. Celebrate Every Step

Stop waiting for the “big win” to celebrate.

The courage to start is a win.

That first email sent? A win.

Your first client, your first post, your first ‘yes’? All wins.

Gratitude keeps you grounded. Celebrate often and loudly.