Bovingdon said: "I call it the 'mind gap' - we spend so much time inside our business, we never take the time to step outside it and look at it objectively. And that's important if we want to succeed."

Entrepreneur Tracey Bovingdon, a 2012 BSA Five Cup & Best Tea winner, told BSA members making a decision was vitally important and not to be afraid if it was the wrong one. "You learn from mistakes; the important thing is to make a decision and don't put it off. People spend too much time procrastinating and never get anything done."

Martyn Herriott, who was named executive director of the BSA for a further three years, commented: "From the Association's point of view Tracey's speech was thought provoking and inspirational. It invoked a topical debate and I am delighted Tracey  gave this talk and we will be inviting her to speak again at  future BSA events."

Becky Stone, owner of The Bottle Kiln, West Hallam, and a BSA 5 cup and "best Drinks" Award winner, said: "I found Tracey's talk really inspiring, focused and honest. She covered some great points on life and work success to an extremely captivated audience. It was interspersed with entertaining stories and a flowing question and answer section leading on to an illuminating debate enjoyed by all."

Tracey Gamble from Black Diamond Milkshakes added: "I did enjoy listening to Tracey's talk - she gave us some fantastic advice. Her talk was very inspirational to me on a personal level: it proved to me that there is a place for women in this type of business. She has worked hard but didn't give up when faced with a problem. She also said a favourite saying of hers was 'Fortune favours the brave', so you just need to make courageous decisions. They may turn out to be a mistake, just remember to learn from them."

The event, sponsored by 3M Water Filtration, commenced with 18 holes of golf. Adam Foster, Foster Hughes Ltd was congratulated for winning the golf tournament.