5 Ways to Fill Your Cup

April 20, 2023 by Lori Leave a Comment

Self-Care is Essential

What comes to mind when you think about self-care? Spa days and soaking in a deep tub surrounded by bubbles? Those are lovely options, but wait, there’s more. Self-care and self-love are more than just occasional pampering.

Creating regular routines and practices are a sustainable way to a happier, healthier you.

Why is self-care important? Let me count the ways. First of all, it’s been proven that the benefits you can reap are more happiness, confidence, and productivity.

Love Yourself First

Neglecting self-care can lead to feeling anxious and burned out. Have you ever heard the phrase “You can’t pour from an empty cup?” It’s nearly impossible to run a home and a business, take care of a family, or even be a great friend if you are running on empty. Taking care of yourself first gives you the energy and love to be able to best support your kids, your partner, your friends, and your colleagues.

Anything you do to nourish your physical, emotional, and mental health is considered self-care.

5 Self-Care Strategies:

1. Be your own best friend

If you’ve ever found yourself saying or thinking things about yourself that you’d never dare say about another person, it’s time to implement positive self-talk. Replace negative thoughts about yourself with positive ones.

Easier said than done, right? To help you get started, write down a few things you love about yourself and read them every day; several times a day, in fact. Add in words of gratitude. Speak those words out loud and smell or diffuse an essential oil, like Believe, Valor, Transformation, Gratitude, Grounding, or Motivation, for example. Explore your options here.

2. Choose Good Nutrition

Feeling good about yourself and caring for yourself starts from the inside out. Your daily eating habits have a long-term impact on everything from your immune system and gut health to the quality of your sleep.

Keep your nutrition simple by drinking plenty of water, eating the rainbow, and getting in some good fats and lean protein. If you feel like you’re still not getting the nutrients you need, I can guide you and make recommendations! Also, get the extra nutrition support with the right supplements.

3. Give your brain a break

With endless to-do lists and demands on your time and attention, it can put your brain on overload. Take a few minutes to stop, pray, and meditate on God’s Word. Let God fill your heart. Allow His peace, strength, and love flow in and through you. Taking time for this has many benefits, you will be anxious for nothing, which will boost your mood and reduce stress. Even if you find it difficult to calm your racing thoughts at first, just sitting and taking a few deep breaths will do wonders to help you relax physically and mentally.

4. Make movement a priority

Whether it’s a walk around the block, a dance party with the kids, or a powerlifting session at the gym, the health benefits of moving your body, and negatives of sitting all day, are too great to ignore. If you’re out of practice with movement, start small with 10 or 15 minutes a day and pick something you love or something easy to work into your schedule. Walk the kids to school instead of driving, dance while you cook dinner, or do a 15-minute video before winding down for the evening.

5. Embrace the art of slow travel

Vacations are an important part of self-care, but have you ever come back from one and felt like you needed another vacation to recover from it? If you often experience travel fatigue, then slow travelling may be just what you need. An alternative to traditional tourism, slow travelling is all about pacing yourself for a more immersive experience.

For example, instead of cramming your itinerary full of tourist spots, slow down and get a taste of what day-to-day life is like for the locals. Stay in a home with character; eat at small, family-run restaurants; and spend time exploring your surroundings without feeling pressured to document it on social media. When you let mindfulness and self-care guide your itinerary, you’ll come back from your vacation more refreshed and ready to share your best self with your friends, family members, and the world.

As I write this, I will be travelling to Cancun soon. If you want to know how to travel better without breaking the bank, including daily, local perks, check out this wholesale affiliate option.

No matter what you do, take time for you.

Let me know how I can help.

(*Note: This blog was inspired by partner company, Young Living, and my own experience. Also, tech challenges – even if the hyperlinks look crossed out, they do work when you click on them.) Thanks for reading.

Much Love,

Living The LORI Factor kayaking in Outer Banks NC — Lori Kayaking in Outer Banks NC

What Matters Most

September 11, 2022 by Lori Leave a Comment

This day is currently 9/11

It was a day of tragedy and sorrow for the attack on America in 2001 that will never be forgotten. My heart goes out to all those who lost loved ones. Thank you to all the first responders.

That was an eye-opener for what matters most.

I almost lost a dear son on August 22, 2021. He is a first responder, but it was a motocycle accident that threatened his life. Thankfully, his life was spared. Make family a priority. Love conquers all. Forgiveness opens the door to restoration, peace, harmony, and unity.

Read my article here about Unity in the Home Publications.

There will always be things to do. Your calendar is full. If you don’t schedule time for the people you love, nobody will do it for you. Don’t wait until its too late.

You have made my days a mere handbreadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Everyone is but a breath,
even those who seem secure. ~ Psalm 39:5

Every sunrise is a gift from God.

Live each day to the fullest as though it could be your last day. When that day comes, decide NOW what your eternal address will be. Choose 777 Heaven. Your mansion awaits you. Travel to the right destination.

It is my mission to tell you that there is only One True God. Ask Him yourself. Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

I almost lost my life too soon.

At that time, my eternal future was in a place of hopelessness, despair, and destruction. Then, I found Hope. I knew my story must be told. My message is meant to get into your hands.

This message is in my book: The LORI Factor: Live the Life You Were Born to Live

Here is a description of The LORI Factor

This book has the potential to become the avenue to your miracle. It gives insights and examples of personal experiences that are relatable and real.

Lori Bruton is a messenger of HOPE who gives you hope for the future and POWER in the present. Do you know that you have more inside you that’s waiting to come out?

“If you are seeking direction and looking for a way to transform your life, keep reading! The LORI Factor will show you the way.” Les Brown

Much Love to you and your family,

Look No Further. You Found It!

May 15, 2022 by Lori Leave a Comment

It’s May 15^th as I write this message. That date represents my Grandpa’s birthday when he was here on earth. Fond memories bring a smile to my face of when I spent time with him on his farm. I got a giggle watching all the pigs snort, wiggle, and root around trying to find something in the ground.

Those seemed like simpler times to me since I was a young girl and carefree. I had fun swinging on the tire hanging from the big oak tree. I could just be me, free-spirited and carefree.

Why am I telling you this? Sometimes as adults we complicate things and get overwhelmed. Doubt and fear creep in through our thoughts and other people’s opinions. Can I get a witness?

Don’t let doubt dominate your thoughts or beliefs. You can do more than you think you can. You do have the skills. You can acquire new skills. You will serve with excellence and accomplish more than you can imagine.

Okay, so does anyone else still question their destiny? I even joined a group called, “Your Dream to Destiny.” It’s about how to step into the dreams that God has put in your heart and activate your calling. It’s a great group of people and good content. That was one step I took.

Why did I keep searching for my destiny? What is my purpose? Have you ever asked yourself those questions? It may cause stress and discouragement if the answer is unknown to you. You may want to give up hope… but don’t.

Personally, self-sabotage was one obstacle that kept rearing its ugly head. Comparison and comments caused me to question myself. Some people said I took too long to do certain things. However, the end result that I produce is excellent. I refuse to put out half-baked work or half-baked cookies. Don’t rush the cook. Everyone has their own pace. That’s got to be worth something to somebody, right?

Instead of believing that I was slow, maybe it was that their instructions weren’t clear, or their budget wasn’t enough to pay for the value I provide. No more undercutting myself, even though people in other countries can do many projects quicker and cheaper. Yes, that has its place at times.

I know there are people who do want what I have to offer and the value I bring. Too many want the blue light Kmart special. Is Kmart still in business? Anyway, those people aren’t your people.

Once I got clarity, (I’ve got an essential oil for that, by the way. LOL) then I saw a new perspective. The right people at the right time will come. Divine appointments and divine assignments meant for you and me will happen.

Look no further. It’s been right in front of you but you couldn’t see it yet.

Back to the destiny question. A book in my collection was highlighted to me; a specific chapter called, “Writing is My Destiny.”

That was the answer and confirmation. I have authored three books so far as well as articles and content creation and repurposing. In the book, Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul, a quote in that chapter said, “Deep in your coded instructions, your Creator has placed a very special job that only you can do. You are patented and copyrighted in Heaven.”

Can I get an Amen? The author of that chapter quoted her writing teacher, Bud Gardner, “When you speak, your words echo only across the room or down the hall. But when you write, your words echo down the ages.”

Those words spoke to me and inspired me to write this blog. Hi, I am Lori Bruton, Writer (and more). I am thankful for that gift and passion. I hope this message has inspired and encouraged you.

No matter what your bank account says or what people say, let God highlight and confirm the desires of your heart. If you’re not already there, step into your destiny because it will change and save many lives. Your destiny will create a legacy.

I’ll close with this question. If you need help with your business, what would you need help with? Let’s talk. Message me. If I’m not the one, maybe I can connect you with the assistance you need.

Here’s what I know. We were created to create and impact lives.

In Gratitude,

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo: Serve this Guacamole Dip

April 19, 2022 by Lori Leave a Comment

May is right around the corner. Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is a great time to celebrate. Sharing this recipe will get you off to a tasty start.

Here is a fresh way to mix up some guacamole:

INGREDIENTS:

2 avocados
2 drops Citrus Fresh vitality
1 drop Lime vitality
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped red onion
1–2 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Pinch salt
Pinch black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Remove the pit from the avocados and scoop the flesh into a bowl, mashing roughly with a fork.
Add all other ingredients and stir until mixed.
Garnish with cilantro.
Enjoy with tortilla chips or with your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes!

You can enjoy this recipe anytime. Since May is coming up as I write this, I was inspired to share this with you.

On this Lifestyle Blog you will find many morsels from food, health and wellness, travel, inspiration, motivation, and stories you will enjoy that educate and entertain.

Let’s have some fun. Feel free to browse other items here.

Stay tuned for more Lori’s Stories, especially Lori’s Stories By the Water, which is my favorite place to be.

Let me know how you like this guac recipe and how you celebrated even if it was dancing by yourself at home. Crank up the tunes and have a dippity do dah day. Olé!

These Doors are Dangerous – DO NOT OPEN

March 1, 2022 by Lori Leave a Comment

This URGENT MESSAGE was put on my heart. It can save lives.

It may seem harmless but beware. Many are lured in. It’s disguised. It’s a lie. Know the Truth before you open doors that compromise your future.

How do I know? I was fooled too. In fact, I almost died. Thankfully, I learned the difference before it was too late.

It almost stopped me from building my Young Living business because too many (not all) are partnering with the occult.

Many Christians are even mixing these practices that open dangerous doors.

Don’t take offense. Simply be open to learn the whole Truth.

(Note: Young Living products are top quality. They support my health daily. Not all essential oils are the same. I ONLY use Seed to Seal Young Living. It’s HOW some use them. They are not “god in a bottle.” God made us and He made the plants. The oils are from the plants.)

Terms like healing energy, Reiki, yoga are rooted in a religion not of the True God. New Age is running rampant and can look like Christianity.

What doors have you opened? You cannot mix practices rooted in other religions and expect eternity in Heaven. This is no time to play or to compromise.

Get clarity.

Your choices matter. Ask the Name Above All Names to reveal Himself to you before it’s too late.

Maybe you don’t believe me. That’s okay. What if I’m right?

There is an enemy who came to kill, steal, and destroy. No joke.

This person found the Truth and learned her way was the wrong way. That was a close one. Here is her story…

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/may-june/nicole-watt-reiki-master-new-age-healing.html

Get the facts. Support your health without opening doors that will affect your eternal future.

I care about you. I can teach you the best way to support your needs spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Just ask me.

Hope & Help for Your Life and Business in this Podcast Interview

January 11, 2022 by Lori Leave a Comment

Are you an author, speaker, coach, consultant, or podcaster?

This is for anyone who is discouraged, frustrated, lost hope and needs help or simply wants more out of life.

Tune into this message. Listen to the video interview to hear the complete conversation and experience I had with Kat. Grab your coffee or favorite beverage and join us.

This transcript below is a partial edited, easy-to-read version of the interview I had with Kathy White on her podcast, Koffee with Kat.

Kat: Happy Friday everybody and welcome to Koffee with Kat. I hope that you all have some coffee. I have my coffee mug here.

I am super excited because we have Lori Bruton on the line. She is going to talk about her book, The LORI Factor.

I’m going to let Lori introduce herself. All right Lori, can you tell the audience who you are and what you do?

Lori: Yes. Hi I’m Lori Bruton.

Speaking of coffee, I always like to say my last name is like brewing a ton of coffee. That makes it easier to pronounce.

I am an author and speaker. Some people call me Queen of Hope. I’ve loved to write ever since I can remember.

I’m excited to share my message today with all of you.

Kat: Awesome. I know that your book is called The LORI Factor. Where did you come up with that name?

Lori: That’s a good story. Yes, the title is The LORI Factor: Live the Life You Were Born To Live.

The idea was born with Les Brown. Some of you may be familiar with Les Brown. He’s the international number one motivational speaker. He actually wrote the Foreword to this book.

I was at a virtual networking event. I got the opportunity to be interviewed by him and ask him a question. He asked me, “What was a defining moment in your life; a time where after that nothing was ever the same?”

When I look back at what popped into my head; the thing that came to my mind, oh my. It was live, in person, raw, and real.

That is where I told him about a story that happened to me, and life was never the same after that. From there, he called it The LORI Factor. He took the letters of my name L. O. R. I. and gave each letter a meaning. I can go into that now.

Kat: Yes. Go for it.

Lori: “L” is for Larger vision of yourself. You need to have a larger vision of

yourself despite your circumstances and where you are now.

“O” is for Optimism. Having an optimistic spirit that you can do anything. It’s possible.

“R” is for Reinvent yourself. You can take where you are now and make a whole new life for yourself if that’s what you want.

“I” is for Invest in yourself. Bet on you because you’re an asset so invest in yourself.

Those are the main points of L.O.R.I. in The LORI Factor.

Kat: Oh, I love that. You said that the book is about giving people hope. You’re basically reigniting their hopes and dreams and giving them a place to read because of the stuff that you’ve went through.

Is there anything in your life that you want to share without giving your book away?

Lori: Yes. It just came to mind, and I feel this is a good time to talk about this in general but especially this time of year. We’re in December right now. It can be a joyful time for many and yet it can be a really hard time for others.

I know the suicide rate is higher now than ever before plus what’s going on in the world. I, myself, went through a time where I felt hopeless. If you lose hope, then you wonder, why am I even here? You think people would be better off without you. You think there’s no way out.

But suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

I want to give anyone who’s in that spot right now or if you know of anyone, there’s still hope; just hang on one more minute.

That’s the biggest thing is hope. You have a purpose. Your life does mean something even if you don’t know what that is right now.

You were born and created for a purpose. We need you.

Even if you don’t see it right now, you’re here for a reason. I really want to urgently say that and give that message. Choose life!

Everybody has a story and a message. Even if you don’t think it matters or it’s not important, somebody needs to hear your voice.

Our voices need to be heard. That’s one thing that I talk about in my book. I talk about how I was always quiet and invisible and known as ‘quiet little Lori.’

It took me a long time to get brave and speak up. Once I did, sometimes I got shut back down again. Then somebody told me that I reminded them of a turtle, because when I got brave and wanted to say something, I’d come out of my shell and speak up.

I used to stay quiet out of fear. Now it’s a choice when I go into my shell. I don’t stay there too long.

Be brave and have hope.

I talk about a lot of stories that happened in my life. You’re not going to believe some of these stories. You’ll be like, “She did what?”

Here’s a good place to say I’m glad I’m not that person anymore. God didn’t give up on me. I gave up on myself for a little while, but I’m still here. I’m glad I’m able to talk to all of you today.

Stories show that you can be in the darkest place or even a silly place or whatever kind of place, and there’s always a way out.

You’re an overcomer!

People called me that; you’re an overcomer. Huh? I didn’t see myself that way until I looked back on the things I’ve been through and I’m still here to talk about it.

You can overcome even though it might not look like it right now or even if you don’t know how. There’s a way.

Having that belief and keeping the hope, the how will come later.

Kat: That’s awesome, Lori!

Kat asked me to read an excerpt from my book. I chose the part that starts with, “This book has the potential to become the avenue to your miracle…”

That excerpt goes on to say… “I wrote this with love. Come with an open mind and heart. Let this message not merely inform you but transform you.”

Find the hope and help you need from me. What does that look like? Maybe some of you want to read my book. You can get a copy here: https://thelorifactor.com/

Do you need a speaker or a virtual assistant who specializes in writing? Do you need help creating or repurposing content that will expand your business and those you serve? Those are services I provide.

Text “VA” to my text only number: 1-844-394-4798

This blog also serves as an example of my skills such as transcribing videos (and audios), writing in a conversational tone, creating content for blogs, social media posts, and more.

I look forward to hearing from you so that we can create massive value and impact together.

Thanks for stopping by. May you be filled with hope, love, and joy.

Here’s to your happiness and success in all you do. I’m here to help you.

In Gratitude,

Lori