encouragement Archives

Eat the Dessert First: Start Living Life on Your Terms

August 8, 2022 by Lori Leave a Comment

Bread Pudding Dessert @drdepot photo by Lori Bruton

I agree with this Helen Keller quote, “Life is short and unpredictable. Eat the dessert first.”

In my book, The LORI Factor: Live the Life You Were Born to Live, there is a chapter called, Lifestyle: Start Living Life on Your Terms.

Are you living life on your terms?

I know I wasn’t, until I made different decisions. As a result, I stopped letting life happen to me. I stopped allowing other people’s opinions become my reality.

I remember when somebody mentioned something my mother said. I said I hadn’t talked to my mother that day. He said I meant your mother’s voice that’s in your head. Whoa! He was right. I loved my mother, but many words she said were not the truth. A phrase I kept hearing from her was, “You can’t do that,” and “Your sister would be the one to write a book.” Hearing that repeatedly programmed me to believe it.

Note: Be careful who and what you believe, or you will be deceived.

Thankfully, I learned to tune into a higher voice of the One who taught me my voice matters and that I can do anything that I put my mind to, like writing books. Renewing my mind, changing, and upgrading my thoughts and words were the beginning of living life on my terms.

The Serenity Prayer says: God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.

It does take courage.

These powerful words made a big difference, “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9 NLT

Focus on the things you can control. You can’t control the past. Be present. Get unstuck. Instead of resisting change, embrace it.

That doesn’t mean accepting everything being dictated around you. Stand up for what’s right. Unmask yourself. Let your voice be heard.

I used to feel invisible and was taught to be quiet and not to interrupt until I got a LARGER vision of myself beyond what people told me and beyond my circumstances. It’s time to speak up and let my voice be heard because you need to hear this message of hope, encouragement, and empowerment.

By the way, it’s not a coincidence that you are reading or hearing this right now. “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD, “They are plans for good and not for disaster to give you a future and a hope.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

Paint a picture in your mind of what your best life looks like. Hold that vision, write it down, and make it plain, as it says in the living Word of God in Habakkuk 2.

Keep it before your eyes.

When you can visualize the life you desire, it puts you in the driver’s seat. Visualization is a powerful tool. What do you love? Where are you? What are you doing? Who is with you? See it, hear it, taste it, smell it, and feel it.

Engage all your senses.

Be specific. Picture your dream vacation or dream car, for example. Soon your dreams become reality. Take action. I put myself in the driver’s seat on a boat recently. I have been writing more and getting articles published. I am a travel writer and am stepping into that lifestyle.

Start where you are. Take yourself places in your mind first. Do things in your own backyard that are local.

Explore. Take a road trip.

I live in the “gorges” Finger Lakes region where there are beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and parks. Watkins Glen is a must-see place. From Canandaigua to Ithaca NY, I got to experience accommodations, adventures, relaxation, and amazing food including:

Capt. Bill’s Dinner and Sunset Sightseeing Seneca Lake Cruise

Summit to Stream where I took out an ocean kayak on Seneca Lake

Keuka Watersports at Champlin Beach in a kayak on Keuka Lake

Bed & Breakfast at Oliver Phelps was the first B&B in Canandaigua

Rogues Harbor Inn is a lovely historical B&B near Cayuga Lake

Corner Pub at Rogues Harbor Inn has great food and service at the Inn

Ciao! Was had authentic Italian food with Tuscan flair and delicious dessert

Ithaca Massage Station was a relaxing, pampering experience

NaturLuxe & Stars is where I had my first glamping adventure in style

Jerlando’s Ristorante & Pizza Co. has salads, Italian food & more

Nickel Pit’s BBQ has tender, tasty barbeque with warm service

True Love where I swooned over the schooner and talked to the Captain

Come sail away on the True Love Schooner on Seneca Lake Watkins Glen NY — Sail True Love

I made a decision. I found a way no matter what my bank account or circumstances looked like. No matter to those trying to set me up to fail or making assumptions. No more putting my life on the back burner and taking care of everyone except myself.

Commit to your goals and dreams. Create your life by design. Writing, speaking, wealth, wellness, travel, and more are possible. Get on the road, on the plane, or on the boat to wherever you desire to go.

Tiramisu dessert at Ciao! Ithaca NY — Tiramisu at Ciao!

Eat the dessert first.

Can you see the person you are meant to be? Take the Journey to Hope and Transformation (which I talk about in my first book).

Get my book, The LORI Factor: Live the Life You Were Born to Live, for more ideas on how to live life on your terms.

Tell me the actions you took. The first action was you read this blog. Thank you and congratulations. What spoke to you the most?

Let’s celebrate each step together. Let me know how I can help. Choose life and live life to the fullest.

Be Fiercely Unstoppable

April 29, 2021 by Lori Leave a Comment

Greetings,

It’s time to be strong and courageous. No more waiting.

Zig Ziglar said, “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” Can you relate?

How many of you have goals and dreams you want to achieve? I didn’t know speaking was one of mine. We all have a story to share. Let your voice be heard.

I decided to let my voice be heard. It may not be polished and perfected yet, but my message is authentic and vulnerable. May my message impact many lives.

What are you pursuing or holding back in doing? No more fear or self-doubt. Be fiercely unstoppable. People are waiting for you to step up and be heard, whatever that looks like for you. Dip your toe in and tune in to many amazing speakers. I am privileged to be one of them.

I invite you to join this community of like-minded people working to grow their businesses and sharing strategies and methods that work.

Are you an entrepreneur or want to be? You may be an author, speaker, coach, copywriter, branding expert, software developer, web designer, or personal chef. The point is that you’re the one who makes all of the decisions for your business. That can be a lot of pressure sometimes.

You still have time to virtually attend The Fiercely Unstoppable Entrepreneur Summit this weekend. I am speaking about The LORI Factor on May 1 at 9:15am EST. This event is hosted by Dr. Elizabeth Clamon.

It would be plum pleasing pleasure to have you there. Get your complimentary ticket here: https://bit.ly/LoriSummitMay2

Much Love and Success to you,
Lori

Lori Bruton
Author, Speaker,
Copywriter

6 SOLUTIONS FOR WHEN URGENT MATTERS KNOCK YOU DOWN

February 20, 2021 by Lori Leave a Comment

At any moment, urgent matters may arise. Immediate action is required. It can throw you into emotional turmoil. You may feel like life is spinning out of control. Or…

You can put your own spin on it. Choose to transform urgent matters into living life with urgency. Allow those challenges to awaken a new way and a new you.

Imagine what it looks like beyond what’s happening now. See yourself conquering every challenge. What does it feel like to get to the other side and find a way to achieve your goals and dreams?

Sometimes stress and change can knock you down, but don’t let it knock you out. Like Les Brown says, “When life knocks you down, try to land on your back. Because if you can look up, you can get up.”

Your situation may seem impossible, but God has a comeback for every setback and a new beginning for every ending. –Oola

Do you feel like you’re in too deep? Overwhelm and procrastination can keep you stuck and scattered. I know saying goodbye makes me cry. There is loss but you can turn it into a gain and treasure the moments you shared with people and places. You may feel lost while you watch others succeed. You are happy for them. For you, maybe you see no way out. What’s happening in your life that feels heavy and looks impossible to handle?

Here, with me, you won’t get beaten down. This is a safe place. Has anyone ever said to you: “You’re not special,” Or “It could be worse,” Or “You’re not tough enough,” or “You can’t do that;” Really? I don’t know about you, but those words tend to be critical and discouraging not understanding and encouraging.

Let me encourage you and help you get back up with these 6 solutions:

U = UNDERSTAND. Understand there are unprecedented times and that whatever has happened may be new to you; you’ve never experienced it before. It’s a big adjustment. You don’t have to conform but instead transform. Disregard people who compare or make it seem insignificant. It’s significant to you. As I write this, we are living in unprecedented times. Then when you add your personal circumstances it compounds. Breathe. First, just breathe. Be present in the moment. You don’t have to figure it all out right now. If one day at a time seems too much, break it down to one minute at a time. Everyone has a different pace. Honor your own pace and don’t feel pressured by anyone else. Know that you are greater than your circumstances.
R = REST & REFLECT. Break. Take a break. Did you think I meant breakdown? That’s okay too. Shedding tears is cleansing. It’s healthy. Keeping everything inside can be toxic. Handling urgent matters may mean letting go and taking a break from other things for now, even a job. Ask yourself, “What’s most important right now?” Will you wish you worked more when you look back? Not likely. Take time to take care of you. There may be more going on than just emotions. Maybe you need to take a nap, soak in the tub, and eat good food to refuel and refresh.
G = GIFTS. Believe. Accept the change and believe it will be okay. Get a new perspective and see the gifts this urgent matter brings. You may experience a wave of emotions and face challenges. Ride the wave. It’s okay. God promises to work everything together for good. Be grateful for the gifts.
E = EVALUATE. Assess the situation. Explore new possibilities. What can you do to move forward? Where do you want to be? What do you want to be doing? Who do you want to do it with? Picture it in your mind. You don’t have to let any situation “infect” you and keep you feeling stuck, sad, and hopeless. Allow this new thing to “affect” you and transform you into having a better life. You get to choose. Are you living for other people and not living the life you were born to live? You were made for more.
N = NECESSARY. It’s necessary that you work on yourself and develop yourself despite disappointments and setbacks. It’s necessary to surround yourself with quality people who believe in you and lift you higher. Remember, when things go wrong, don’t go with them as Les Brown would say. Not just when things go wrong, but when major change happens give yourself grace to shift into a new gear, adjust your sails, enjoy the new journey.
T = TRUST. Trust the process. No matter how it looks now, know the best is just ahead. Take a risk. You don’t need to grab the next branch before letting go of the one you’re holding onto now. Don’t let yourself get buried alive. Don’t let your dreams die. Do a new thing that makes your heart sing.

There you go. Implement these 6 steps and live life with urgency. No more procrastination, settling, or giving up on your dream and the life you were born to live. No more putting off the passion that burns inside you. Maybe it’s writing a book, traveling, starting a business, speaking, creating a new invention, or moving to a different area. What is it for you?

I have a better understanding of it’s hard but worth it. You’ll be okay. Get excited and embrace new adventures. We can evaluate together if you like. We are created for a purpose. Let’s explore where you are now and where you want to be so you can get more out of your life.

Text URGENT to this text only number: 844-394-4798.

Peace and Love,

Lori

Creator of The LORI Factor, Author, Speaker &

Certified Oola Life Coach

WHY I CHOSE TO WRITE A BOOK

February 8, 2019 by Lori 143 Comments

In my last blog, I announced that I wrote a book called HOLE TO WHOLE. It’s been a strong desire on my heart to write a book for many years. In fact, I believe it is my assignment. More importantly, I choose to make a difference in many lives.

Some people write to gain status or the title of being an author. For me, it’s not an ego trip or for a “title”. I speak and write from my heart sincerely in truth. May my words help you in a profound way and make a positive impact in your life. Get comfy; there may be tears and definitely laughter. May your heart and life be touched changed forever after.

Even though my book talks about my personal experiences, it isn’t truly about me. What do I mean? The purpose is to help and encourage others. No matter how many “holes” and obstacles we encounter, anything is possible. We can overcome and press forward.

My dad always told me everything starts with an idea; my dreams CAN come true. I admit that I doubted. Hearing people say, “You can’t do that. No one will read your book. Only rich people are successful authors.”

Know that I poured my heart and soul into every page. I took a BIG RISK putting my story out there. I know that I know that I had to expose my darkest secrets. Why? There are too many people in pain; suffering shame and guilt and feeling unworthy and discouraged.

I chose to come to a point that I didn’t care what other people thought, their opinions, their judgments; I care more about how my story can help others. Losing hope and giving up is no way to live; it’s just existing.

We are all born and created for a purpose; to make a difference. It’s time to get off the couch and live. Maybe you want to get up, but you feel you can’t. Something is keeping you down; something you may not be aware of yet. It’s not just about willing yourself to do it. It’s time to dig deep and expose those roots that have kept you stuck. Don’t let them rot and ruin your life. Maybe you don’t even know all the stuff you’ve been stuffing. Warning: It will surface in some form.

Let’s take this journey together so you will come out on top. My story may offer you solutions. Just knowing someone else has gone through similar experiences may be helpful. There is so much more! It’s time to thrive and make your dreams a reality.

INVISIBLE NO MORE

February 1, 2019 by Lori 1 Comment

I have been silent long enough. No more staying in the shadows. I decided to be brave and vulnerable and share my story with you.

For most of my life I felt invisible. So, I stayed in my shell and kept quiet. I was taught it wasn’t okay to speak up or interrupt. Daring to interrupt was the only way to interject since I often couldn’t get a word in edgewise. Still, no one heard my voice. I thought my voice didn’t matter. Guess what? That was a LIE!

For a long time, my desire was to write a book. Writing is my passion. I asked myself was it possible and how do I make it happen?

Every voice matters and so does your voice. I speak mostly from the written page. Writing is a great way to gather and complete my thoughts without being interrupted, hurried, or being talked over. Why am I telling you this?

ANNOUNCEMENT: It’s possible and my book is ready! http://bit.ly/PreOrderBookNow

Let me share an excerpt with you from my book, Hole to Whole:

When I got home from school, Mom was often visiting with the neighbor as they sat at the kitchen table. I stood silently by her side waiting for permission to speak. Not being acknowledged, I began to wonder if I really was invisible. I would then disappear into my room.

People enjoyed my quiet, gentle, caring nature. Being a good listener and having a nice smile were compliments I received regularly. That was nice, but I knew I needed to come out of my shell. Like a turtle, I slowly began to develop better communication skills during my adult years.

The way I was programmed from past experiences required rewiring my thoughts and beliefs. All I know is I didn’t want to stay that invisible girl any more.

Have you ever felt invisible or that your voice is not heard? Have you ever wanted to write a book? You can relate, right? I appreciate your being here as I share my journey of how I turned the dream of writing a book into reality. There are many twists and turns to my story; stay tuned.

http://bit.ly/PreOrderBookNow