Success

Welcome Back

It has been a long time since I blogged. I have good reasons though. I had to figure out what direction I wanted to go as far as my life, writings, endeavors, and social media presences go. I was being pulled in many directions by family, friends, my assistants, and peers. I am sure many of them didn’t mean any harm; however, being a person who doesn’t like to disappoint others and as I person who loves to stay true to himself, you (the reader) can see where my dilemma lied.

Let me just say, at this moment, I am in the best place that I ever have been in my life. Sure like everyone, I have my struggles; however, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, physically, business-wise, I am in a space that I’ve haven’t been before and it is hard to explain. I will say that everything is in sync and everything is balanced.

How did I get here? While it was Memorial Day weekend of this year (2019). I was going through a rough time. I had gotten tired of people trying to put me in a box and people only reaching out when they needed something. I got tired of being the person who checked on everyone who was in my contact list while no more than five people called or texted me to see if I was “good”. Simply put, I got tired of wasting energy and in a sense being there for people at the cost of my time, energy, and well-being. It was a conversion with someone who I considered a close friend that put things in perspective. The conversion went like this:

Them: “Hey, I want to go to the beach. Come let’s go”

Me: ” I wish I could. I’m a little fucked up right now. I don’t have any money to spend, I’m having car issues, and I have to deal with some other issues.”

Them: “Ok, I’ll talk to you later”

I was hurt. I didn’t expect anyone to solve my issues, but I did expect a person who I have been the ear to their issues for years to at least not rush off the phone when I told them I was going through something.

On Memorial Day, I expected to go to one of the beautiful beaches that we have here in Florida; however, The Most High had a different plan. The Spirit told me to just lay. Then the Spirit said, “Don’t you worry about cutting anyone or anything off. They will cut themselves out of your life. What is for you is for you. What is not, will be moved out of your life. Don’t worry about a thing.” This day I did an impromptu fast, I didn’t talk to anyone, eat or drink anything; I just laid in a meditative state.

I have to admit that I did get a test that day. Right after the Spirit told me that people would cut themselves out my life, my phone rung and it was that “friend” on the other end. I know you are saying, “but Vid I thought you didn’t speak with anyone the whole day?” I didn’t! This is what happened:

Phone Rings and picks up. Before I could say a word. The “friend” goes right into her “issues” and all the drama that is around “them”. This went on for about 5 to 10 minutes. Why did I stay on the line? Because I wanted to see if “this friend” was going to see how I was doing or were they actually cutting their self out of my life. Well, when “the friend” got to their destination, they abruptly said, “I’m arrived at where I’m going, I called to see how you were. I’ll talk to you later.” Two things, they didn’t even see how I was doing and I haven’t spoken to this person since. The weight has been lifted.

Funny thing is this event brought me to partnering on another business endeavor with my cousin. Although, I had some rough patches throughout the summer; brakes going out as I was driving on the Interstate, being so tired that I had to pull on the side of the road to sleep, deaths in the family, and troubles with the new business venture, my life as been refreshed. Through all the troubles and success, people, events, and things that aren’t supposed to be on the journey to where I am going have cut themselves out of my life, I didn’t have to do a thing but continue to stay focused. Life has balanced itself out and I’m on a mission to make an impact in this world, build a legacy for my family, and just live my purpose.

Things that can only be achieved by using your energy and time on things that are beneficial to your growth. Sometimes you have to be selfish to be selfless. How can you help others if you are unable to help yourself? How can you love others if you don’t love yourself?

Why am I sharing this with you (the reader)? I’m sharing because you have things and people in your life that are bringing you down and they need to be let go so you can live your true purpose in life. Letting go is challenging because it means you have to travel outside of your comfort zone and leave things that you are used to; things that you think you aren’t able to leave behind. I’m here to tell you that life is much simpler when you get rid of what isn’t beneficial to you and others. Things that aren’t beneficial to you doesn’t mean that that thing, activity, or person is negative. It means that they aren’t adding any value to your life, time, or energy; they aren’t helping you grow.

Yes, I am back, but I titled this blog “Welcome Back” because I want you to get back to the living your true purpose and getting back to a life of balance.

XXX

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TAKE RISKS, GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Lately, I’ve been getting calls from people wanting to know how can they live a more successful life. The truth is we can never live a successful life if we are afraid of failing. In life we must get out of our comfort zones and take risks in order to achieve happiness and success. Hopefully, the words in the next few paragraphs will help those seeking to achieve their goals to take the correct actions to do so.

“Everyone wants security in life, but what constitutes security? How long does it last? Is there really even such a thing?

Many people stay in jobs they dislike because it offers them financial security. They can’t wait for the weekend to come so they can get a break from their jobs – yet they will let thoughts of returning to their jobs ruin their weekend. The need for comfort and security, and the fear of not having it, causes people to settle – but placing yourself in a box is not really living at all. It places limits on what you can do. Being too comfortable stunts our growth – and can cause us to miss out on many of life’s greatest pleasures.

Living is much more enjoyable when you’re doing something that you love. In fact, that is the difference between simply having a job and having a career. Getting out of one’s comfort zone and taking risks allows people to use their natural instincts, hone their survival skills and know their limits. Being brave enough to face your fears will not only enable you to excel in life but also to discover who you truly are.

Don’t be afraid to fly. Many of us go along simply doing what society expects of us. Unfortunately this makes us just dreamers – not people who are following their dreams. If you want to become a singer, basketball player, doctor, lawyer, or entrepreneur – do it, don’t think about it. Don’t worry about your money situation, or what people will think or say. Just take the risk and you will find that your survival instincts will come alive to guide you. At first, money may be tight – but you will get by fine and the money will come. The main thing is to remember that money does not bring true happiness. It helps us in many ways, but it means nothing if you’re not being true to yourself.

Another reason people don’t take risks is because they care too much about what someone else may think. This is just an excuse for not trying. News for you, the people that love you are going to love you regardless of what you do. The people who truly love you only want you to be happy. The fact of the matter is that we let money, and what others think of us, control our lives to the point that our lives are not ours anymore.

“It’s a Bitter Sweet Symphony this life,

Trying to make ends meet,

You’re a Slave to MONEY then you die,”

(Lyrics from Bitter Sweet Symphony / The Verve)

Stop complaining that you’re stuck in a dead-end job and do something about it. Be about it, dream about it, do it and live it. Stop saying, “I will try” – either do it or don’t. Stop saying “if” and start saying “when.” Realize that there are going to be many hard times and sacrifices, but that is what life is made of. If you are going to have to go through hard times (and we all inevitably do) then you might as well do it for something you love.

We all have the choice to lead or follow, be the leader. Remember that people in worse positions than you took the initiative to become who they wanted to be – and succeeded. The winners are those that desire to fly so badly that they don’t fear falling out of the sky. The only true failure is not giving it a shot. No matter what comes your way, know that you are going to be okay – because you are giving your all – and life rewards that.” – TAKE RISKS, GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

XXX

The piece above is from my first book You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving.

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Inside of the Mind of a Saved Warrior Who’s Soul Bouncing His Way to the Top.

Walt-Leon is a multi-talented artist and community leader who hails from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. Walt-Leon has a drive that isn’t matched by many. He uplifts his community through his music, spoken words, and dance performances. He is a man of God who relates to those who may not be the most religious. His new song Soul Bounce is an example of how he can explain “adult like situations and still hold the attention of the youth”. Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr and 4-U-Nique Publishing goes one-on-one with Walt-Leon to learn his keys to success.

Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr: Let me first start off by saying how proud I am of you and your movement. It seems like yesterday you were coming to the basketball courts to see me play and now you are a grown man who is uplifting the community in many ways.

You are a multi-talented person who has several endeavors going on like myself. I know how challenging it can be. How do you stay motivated and overcome the challenges?

Walt-Leon: I am able to stay motivated by putting God first. It’s not about me. He created me with a purpose and blessed me with gifts. Who am I to say, “I don’t feel like doing it”? The next thing that motivates me is my, “Why”. I have two children and I cannot tell them, “Daddy didn’t feel like getting it done today, so I can’t take you to Busch Gardens”. They are counting on me to provide for them. I also want to see a change in the community and my focus is on the youth.

VLBJ: You are a musician, choreographer, athlete, poet, and an upcoming author. What inspired you want to become all of these things?

WL: Honestly, all of these are passions of mine; they are therapeutic for me. They keep my mind clear and bring me peace. Any way I can use my gifts and help someone develop and better themselves, I will. You never know who is watching and by using my gifts that someone may be ashamed of having, helps them to feel more comfortable being themselves. If one life is touched and changed for the better, I am satisfied. That one life can grow to change many more.

VLBJ: You have a movement called “S.W.A.G”. Can you expand more about your movement?

WL: S.W.A.G stands for Saved Warrior Anointed Generation. It’s a reminder that we are not who the media makes us out to be, but we are great. We were born to be great. It started as a song which was the first single off of my upcoming album entitled, Music Take Me Away. Now it’s grown to a full blown movement with the slogan, “I Got SWAG”, which came from a moment when I performed the song at Hampton University. The entire crowd was saying, “I Got Swag” back to me and it stuck with me.

VLBJ: How do you balance your time between all your endeavors and your home life?

WL: That’s the tough part (Laughs). My four year old daughter demands so much attention. I make sure she gets her time first. When she goes to bed is when I start to handle business as WALT-LEON. I sacrifice sleep to make sure I can handle as much as possible. I often have my daughter and son with me while handling business when they ask to go. So they can understand how to get into business for themselves and also so they can see what I’m actually doing when I’m not home. So when it’s their turn to be in charge they can already know how to operate.

VLBJ: Who and what inspired you to travel the path to becoming who you are?

WL: Everything that I do has always been a passion of mine, but I haven’t always been confident doing them. My family inspires me to keep going no matter what. The kids in the community also inspire me. At first I didn’t know they were paying attention until they started speaking up and saying, I make them feel like they can do whatever they want to do in life.

I pull inspiration from any and every little thing from books, to videos, to a child’s imagination, movies and more.

VLBJ: Who are your biggest influences as a musician, choreographer, author, community leader, and poet?

WL: As a musician I have my favorites such as Jay-Z of course; but artist like Sean C. Johnson, Sean Slaughter, Reed Dollaz, Reignman, Fred the Godson, Timeless Treez, Philmysoul, Billy Mercury, and more. The reality and hunger in their music speaks to me.

Influences as a choreographer are Muata Langley, Shaun Evaristo, Vernita Williams, Brian Puspos.

Authors I’m influenced by are you (Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr.) of course, Erica Spradley, and one of my favorite books is by Paulo Coelho.

Since birth I’ve watched community leaders fight for rights and just help people in general. Two of the strongest I’ve seen are Edna Davis and Andrew Shannon.

My favorite poets are Godchild, LEVI, and Michelle “TuTu” Vinnie.

VLBJ: I’m honored that I’m in your list of authors who influence you. Thank you. Let’s talk about your video that is causing a lot of buzz, Soul Bounce. I love the song and video. Tell us how you came up with the concept of the song, as well as the video.

WL: What’s crazy about this song is I got the beat for it in 2011 but I couldn’t find the right voice for the song. In 2016, I linked up with a guy named Carlos Anthony that I played basketball with growing up. I haven’t seen him since 2003. His voice was perfect for the song and we were finally able to record it. The concept of the song was to remind people no matter what you go through in life don’t let it break your spirit and if you look at any situation again, you can find something positive worth rejoicing. The hook is actually the directions to the line dance. At the same time it is what we do in everyday life. We often fall off of our path and go left or right, but we always have a chance to straighten out. Then we get to celebrate once we make it through the obstacle and what was supposed to break us only made us stronger and we used it as motivation instead of as an excuse.

The song had a summer fun skating rink feel to it, so I really wanted people from the community to come have fun and enjoy themselves and be a part of something that they can look back on forever. Once releasing the video, it picked up 8,000 plus views on Facebook in the first week.

VLBJ: You just signed on to publish your book through my company 4-U-Nique Publishing. Why did you decide to write a book and what is it about?

WL: I decided to write a book because I ran across a lot of people who will sit on Facebook and Instagram for 30 minutes at a time but say they don’t have time to read. I decided to write a book which would be 1-2 minute daily reads. Each insert is a daily motivation to get your day started. I was inspired by excuses of others to write something they don’t have an excuse to not read. Starting your day with positivity is critical with all the negative the media puts out.

VLBJ: Out of all the other publishing companies, why did you decide to let 4-U-Nique Publishing work with you on your book?

WL: 4-U-Nique welcomed me and made me feel comfortable as a first time author. When explaining all of the details, you all was honest and broke everything down into terms that someone, who isn’t a publisher, would understand. Built a trusting relationship and the lines of communication have been open for me to ask any questions. I’ve seen the quality of what 4-U-Nique Publishing produces and I love it.

VLBJ: What are your other goals and aspirations?

WL: My main goal is to be the best father my children can ask for and to break generational curses that linger in the community. To help others remember, with God they can do anything. I was blessed with many different talents and I love using every one of them. I really want to get into real estate. Once I get the album out, the book out, and one or two more shirts out, I will expand into the real estate side of things. My company TouchLife is about changing lives and being a positive impact on a person’s life anyway you come in contact with them.

VLBJ: What are your best tips for dealing with creator’s block and staying creative?

WL: My best tip is to always be teachable. You can learn from a child, from nature, from animals, etc. Always be teachable. Don’t force it. The moment you feel like you’re forcing an idea, step away and you may be inspired be something completely different which will get your creative juices flowing again.

VLBJ: Can you tell us about your creating process?

WL: I’m an insomniac, so most of my creativity starts going around 2 am. I often turn on music and cartoons. Being that my focus is for the youth to have something positive and I’m artsy, I watch cartoons and sometimes get a metaphor that the children can relate to while explaining an adult like situation. This way I can reach adults while keeping the attention of the youth.

I love to drive. I will take an 8 hour road trip in a heartbeat. A lot of my creating is done in the car, so I put a lot in my voice memos. Once I come to a stop, I put a rough draft in one of my notebooks. When something is seriously bothering me, I will go sit out by the water and write down what’s bothering me. Then I find a positive way to flip it, so instead of being angry and making someone else relive their anger, I can now have a way to help someone get over what they are going through and not feel alone.

VLBJ: Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to make a positive difference in their community?

WL: Don’t let anyone discourage you. People who laugh at your idea or talk down about it, is simply because they don’t understand. The same ones who laugh are the same ones who will thank you and congratulate you. The only way they will understand what you are saying is by seeing you in action doing it. Someone else is waiting for you to fulfill your purpose and execute the idea you have to make your community better. KEEP GOING!!!

VLBJ: Where are people most likely to see your works?

WL: People are most likely to see my work on social media; Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. I am in the process of discussing a website with a web designer and possibly an app as well.

VLBJ: Do you have any funny or interesting stories to tell us about a project you’ve worked?

WL: I play a lot, so every project I work, song, album, etc. has an interesting story. I’m going through a situation now honestly, which is why the album is entitled, Music Take Me Away.

I’m the goofy one, so I’m always falling and I can’t play anything off because as soon as it happens my daughter always screams, “Ahhh that’s what you get” (Laughs). I would be here for days discussing interesting stories.

VLBJ: If you could be anything in the world, what would you be?

WL: I would be an international artist. This way I can travel the world for a living and take my children to see the world. Give me more to talk about to inspire the children in my community and communities around the world that there is more to the world then the city you live in. I’ll be able to post pictures and show them what I mean instead of just speaking about it.

VLBJ: Do you have any upcoming events or promotions?

WL: Yes, I will be interviewing with DJ DirtyDi on August 6th. August 12th, I’ll teach a workshop where the headline artist will be stellar award winning artist, Bri Babineaux. On August 19th, 2017, the album will be released. I’m also booked to perform at a community day and I have an interview on the Leroy and Janice Butler morning show on 940am radio in Virginia on August 19th. I’ll perform at Andrew Shannon Gospel Music Celebration during the Southeast Day Parade and Festival in September. Just to name a few.

VLBJ: Awesome. DJ DirtyDi did an interview with me at the beginning of the year. She is definitely doing big things. Where can people reach you at? What social media channels? Websites?

WL: I can be reached on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/waltleonmusic. Instagram and Twitter as @walt_leon and on YouTube as WaltLeonMusicTV.

VLBJ: Is there anything else you want people to know?

WL: I want people to know, whatever they put their mind to they can do. Make sure your why is bigger than your excuse and you will accomplish just about every goal you set out to accomplish. My company slogan is what I tell people whenever I get a chance, “See A Life, Touch A Life, Change A Life”.

Don’t forget to check out Walt-Leon’s new video Soul Bounce.

Follow Walt-Leon

FB: http://www.facebook.com/waltleonmusic

IG & Twitter: @walt_leon

YouTube: WaltLeonMusicTV.

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Life is short

The only certainty in Life is Death.

Is Death a part of Life

Or is Life a part of Death?

Only thing I’m sure of is we lost too many too young

Robbing us of future memories together

While leaving us of past memories.

Life is short

And Death is a friend we don’t want to see soon.

Let’s not fear Death

Or take life for granted.

We should use our time living to the fullest

But take time to reflect on moments passed.

Life is short

But a Life of Regrets is a long Life to live.

So tell your loved ones you love them

Spend your time wisely

And don’t waste your life living in fear

Or being unhappy.

Life is short

So why waste it hating others?

Death is certain

So why not leave a positive Legacy behind?

Time is all that we are given

So why not be a Blessing to the world

Before our time runs out?

Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr is the author of You Ain’t Until I’m Starving, Getting Out of the Dark: How to Live a Life Full of Success, Wealth, and Happiness, and Vid’s Viddles: Daily Vitamins for the Soul, all available here

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7 Easy Steps for Creating Balance In Your Life

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We live in an age where the average person is always on the go. Throughout the day we are hustling and bustling between work, taking care of daily needs, and doing for others. In a world where we are attached to our phones and many things are convenient for us, we seem to live our lives without any balance. Many people don’t know why living a balanced life is important (find out here) and how to live a balanced life. Below are some tips on how to find balance in your life, so you can achieve more success, wealth, and happiness.

Things to remember: Life is about balance. Once you are at either side of extremes, (all work or all play), you naturally become unfulfilled. Being balanced keeps you leveled and fulfilled.

1) Me Time.

“Me” time for me consists of meditating and being in your own thoughts by yourself for a while. During this period you should assess your life, connect to your inner voice, find solutions to issues, and find your passions in life.

2) Plan and Life Set Goals in Every Area of Your.

Planning a schedule and setting goals in all areas of your life will help you be accountable for spending time and energy in different areas of your life so you can become balance. It is important to spend equal energy in all areas of your life. If you are devoted to your work, you must be equally devoted to your family, your personal time, and play time. If you do not spend the same energy in all areas of your life issues will arise and spread to other areas of your life.

***Remember, time and energy aren’t the same, so you may spend more time in one area opposed to another area, which is fine.***

3) Learn How to Say No!

If you are like most people you do not like disappointing others and turning them down. To have balance in your life and become successful, you have to learn how to say “no” more and “yes” less when people ask you for your time and energy. If you spend all your time doing for others, when will you have time for yourself? A balanced life consists of being there for others, as well as having time for you.

*** Although we love people and things, we shouldn’t feel guilty when we need a break from them. Taking a small break will help you value these relationships, people and things even more. ***

4) Take Risks and Make Sacrifices.

You must take risks and make sacrifices to change. These risks and sacrifices do not have to be major; even a small change is a significant change. If you are unhappy with your job situation, take the risk in going for a promotion or leaving your job to chase your dream job. If you don’t find enough time in your day to sit and meditate, make the sacrifice to get up earlier so you can have quiet time for yourself and be alone with your inner thoughts. Make the sacrifice of doing less for others so you can do more for yourself. Take the risk of facing your fears and living your life to the fullest.

5) Reflection.

In You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving and Vid’s Viddles: Daily Vitamins for the Soul, I wrote a few pieces on how important daily reflection is in our lives. You should reflect about your day every night before bed. When you reflect you should realize at least one thing you learned during the day, you should see the good things you did throughout the day, and you should see what you need to improve on going forward. Reflection helps you take a moment to sit and enjoy all that you have done, appreciate yourself more, see what you need to work on in all areas of your life, and plan for the next day.

6) Take a Break.

I live by the rule of, “if something that you love doing becomes a chore and you start despising it, it is time to step away for a while”. Routines are great, but living life all the time by a routine will lead you to become burnt out and lose passion for the things you once enjoyed. A balance life consists of having a routine in certain areas and being spontaneous in other areas. By having a mix of both will keep life exciting.

7) Exercise.

You know by now that exercise is essential for living a healthy life. What you may not know is exercising your mind, body, and soul is key to obtaining a balanced life. Life is about growing and changing. You cannot expect to be successful, happy, or balanced if you aren’t stimulating your mind, awaking your soul, and being physically active.

By practicing these 7 steps you will have a balanced life and be on your way to a more successful, wealthier, and happier life. To find out why having a balanced life is important please click here.

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True Kings Society – Empowering the Community Through Love and Hope

FullSizeRender (5) If you have been following Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr. you may have noticed the eye catching shirts with powerful messages that he has been wearing. These messages promote “More Love, Less Hate”, as well as looking past our ethnicity and focusing on being united as “Humans”. Recently, Mr. Buggs and 4-U-Nique Publishing caught up with founders and owners of True Kings Society the brand Vid loves to endorse. Like 4-U-Nique Publishing, True Kings Society prides itself as being unique and diverse, while providing a message of hope, love, and empowerment.

4-U-Nique Publishing: Tell us about yourselves and what True Kings Society is about.

True Kings Society: We are lifelong friends. Both of us graduated from Hillsborough High School in Tampa, FL. We both envisioned a way to be successful as well as help the community. These goals were the forces that created True Kings Society. True Kings Society is a brand who focuses on the Black Community Empowerment and influencing our Culture to live Royally!

4UNP: What made you two get involved in fashion?

TKS: Growing up we both had sense of style. We figured we could use the fashion industry to spread influential messages we look to bring through our Brand.

4UNP: What sets you apart from others who are in the fashion industry?

TKS: We feel that we are in a totally different lane than other brands because we don’t just sell fashion. We sell hope, love, and empowerment.

4UNP: What advice would you have for anyone looking to get into fashion?

TKS: Don’t compromise; don’t follow trends; and use fashion as a way to express yourself. Also, when things seem tough, keep God first and work harder.

4UNP: If you could work with or hold a conversation with anyone past, present, or future who would they be?

Eric: I would definitely go back and talk to the 12 year old version of myself. With all the knowledge life has given me, I could save my younger self from future pain and struggle.

Andre: I would want to talk to the world’s first black billionaire to spend some time picking their brain, to find out how they mapped their way to such an amazing financial status, even with the struggles presented today for most people.

4UNP: Who are you inspirations personally and in the fashion world?

Eric: My personal inspirations would be Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Tupac, and my dad. In the fashion world it would be Sean Combs and Daymond John.

Andre: My personal inspirations would be my mom who is my hero and my late uncle Daron Avery. Daymond John would be my fashion industry inspiration because I see many similarities in how both of our dreams came about.

4UNP: What is the most recent book you’ve read? Who are your favorite authors?

Eric: The most recent book I read was Revolutionary Suicide by Henry P. Newton. My favorite author would be Michael E. Dickerson.

Andre: I recently read Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. I am currently reading Daymond John’s Power of Broke. I don’t really have a favorite author because I’m a fan of everyone honestly.

4UNP: Shameless plug. You both need to read You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving by Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr. and other books published by 4-U-Nique Publishing. You will really be doing yourself a favor.

4UNP: What are your 2017 goals?

TKS: 2017 goals will be expanding our business as well as becoming more involved in our community.

4UNP: Where can our audience find your apparel? DO you have a website? Any Social Media platforms?

TKS: Currently we have Facebook and Instagram pages active @truekingssociety. We also have merchandise available for purchase on our website truekingssociety.bigcartel.com .

4UNP: What message do you want to leave with anyone reading this interview?

TKS: Never try to plan for God’s plan, go in the direction he leads you.

Go to http://www.truekingssocietybigcartel.com to get your shirts today. All supporters of 4-U-Nique Publishing and Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr. are able to use code: Kings, for a special discount.

Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr is the author of You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving and Vid’s Viddles. Copyright© 2017 http://www.vidbuggs.com. Copyright © 2017 http://www.4-U-NiquePublishing.com. Material is copyrighted but free to repost with proper listed credit, including our website addresses.

Pain, Passion, and Purpose.

Marci

This week’s spotlight is on a person who helped, 4-U-Nique Publishing and my book, You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving, transition from being a dream to becoming a reality. Marci Wise is a mother, wife, author, and an adviser whose mission is to help others reach for the stars. Mrs. Wise’s words of wisdom inspired me when I needed them most. I am sure after reading both her interview and her book; you will see why Marci touches so many peoples’ lives.

Vid L. Buggs Jr: What made you want to become an author?

Marci Wise: I don’t think it was a want as much as a need. For years I was kind of haunted by this inner yearning to express myself – but I was blocked. It wasn’t until I went through my “breakdown to breakthrough” moment that I realized that it was my desire to be “perfect” that was the enemy. It made me paralyzed with fear that I might look stupid, so instead I did nothing. But I looked really great during all those stagnant years! Anyway, I eventually realized that perfectionism was holding me back and letting go of that has really freed me. Now my passion is spreading the word and helping other people to break free of the things that are holding them back. Knowledge is power, as they say.

VLB: What motivates you to write?

MW: I hate to see unnecessary struggle. So often people buy into this notion that our worth is tied to our accomplishments, but it takes a long time to reach a goal. What about all those moments in between? Are we not worthy of peace, happiness and contentment along the way? It seems like such a waste – so I decided to say so – and people seem to really respond to this alternate viewpoint, almost as though it has never occurred to them. Giving people permission to shine, right now, just as they are, seems like a powerful way to make the world a better place.

VLB: Describe your writing style.

MW: My style is very conversational. I think I’m a combination storyteller and problem-solver. I like to use metaphors and real-life examples to help people relate to my message on a heartfelt level. And I’ve always had a talent for breaking complicated information down into its simplest elements. With my writing, I try to present a logical sequence of information that not only provides information but also motivation. I want to put the fire and enthusiasm back into people’s lives.

VLB: Tell us about your book(s). How did you come up with the concept?

MW: I would say the concept found me. During the economic depression I was laid off from my job, and losing that part of my identity threw me into a personal crisis of sorts. I was feeling very disillusioned with life. Little did I know that losing that job would end up being the impetus for an amazing, spiritual growth spurt. The book, Pain, Passion & Purpose, is a very personal chronicle of my own journey through that time and the revelations revealed within. At times it’s very raw and real – at other’s it’s almost magical. It began to take the shape of a how-to manual for getting back to the “real you.” It took me four years to write the book because it’s not just words but blood, sweat and tears. I had to live the lessons before they could be transcribed to the page.

VLB: What do you think readers will get out of your book(s)?

MW: I hope that it will offer people the comfort of knowing that they’re not alone in their struggles. We all have those private, vulnerable moments and they’re nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, I think if we would actually allow ourselves to listen to what they’re telling us, instead of chastising ourselves for feeling that way, we would be led to a better life. The book outlines a plan for expressing your whole being, mind, body and spirit, though the use of self-awareness, personal responsibility and Divine inspiration. In the end, it’s about accepting ourselves unconditionally, rediscovering the joyous abandon we had as children, and offering our unique gifts to the world.

VLB: What are your other goals and aspirations? Do you have another book in the works?

MW: Pain, Passion & Purpose was a snapshot in time of my own hardest breakthrough moments. Since that time, I feel like a different person. I’m no longer blocked and afraid to take chances – and I’m excited about life again. I’ve gone back to school and am now working as counselor helping people one-on-one, in addition to my writing. I have a couple of partially written manuscripts on my laptop that I will get around to finishing, but life is a learning process and I’ve spend the last few years studying the theories of some of history’s greatest minds. I know this information will add to the depth and integrity of these new projects. I’m excited to put all that I’ve learned to use.

VLB: Can you tell us about your publishing process?

MW: For Pain, Passion & Purpose I chose to self-publish in order to preserve the genuine nature of the project. This wasn’t a book written to reach a certain market or fit into a specific genre – it was a heartfelt message that was meant to be. I’ve ghostwritten for traditional publication, but this was a different animal and I knew that it was meant to stay that way, so I went with Createspace. Choosing to self-publish allowed me to control every aspect of the process. I won’t say it wasn’t challenging at times, handling the editing, formatting and cover design, but it was infinitely worth it. I’m proud of the book and pleased with the outcome.

VLB: Do you have any upcoming events or promotions?

MW: I am currently finishing up the final semesters of a Master’s program so I’m off the circuit until at least the fall.

VLB: Where are people most likely to see your works at?

MW: Pain, Passion & Purpose is available on Amazon or it can be ordered through Barnes & Noble. Additionally, some libraries stock a copy from time to time.

VLB: Do you have any advice for writers who want to become published authors?

MW: Write as much as you can, in any way that you can. This helps to hone your craft and get the flow going that will be needed to bring that book to reality. Articles, short stories, editorials – whatever you can. Also, allot a daily time in your planner for writing your book. This is staggering but I read somewhere that 97% of writers never finish their book! Just keep plugging away and treat yourself with something special with the completion of each chapter. Even if you’re never a best-seller, just completing your book will put you in the coveted 3%.

VLB: If you could be anything in the world, what would you be?

MW: That’s tough. I suppose I would just say “a light.” Whether that means I’m informative, inspirational or simply pleasant, I believe that world needs more people who are willing, ready, and able to shine.

VLB: What are your best tips for dealing with writer’s block and staying creative?

MW: I think the best advice I ever heard came from writer Anne Lamott who said, “Give yourself permission to write the worst s**t in America.” Getting the words to the page is the hardest part. Once you have that, you can edit and refine it until it shines – but if doubt stops the process then you’ll end up nowhere. To me, creativity means taking chances. Try new things, expose yourself to new experiences. Allowing yourself to feel and experience all the facets of life will add depth and passion to your work.

VLB: What keeps you busy these days? Editing, writing, family, etc?

MW: I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to take on a second career with counseling. Yet to me, I don’t see this as a huge divergence from what I’ve been doing. My clients are seeking answers and a better of life, just like my readers. The only difference is that this time I can actually look them in the eye to see if the message is getting through. I’m also looking forward to doing some traveling in the coming years with my husband. The new me knows that there’s an adventure around every bend – and I want to experience as many of them as I can.

Marci, thank you for your time and advice.

To find Marci’s book, Pain, Passion & Purpose, please click on the link below.

https://www.amazon.com/Pain-Passion-Purpose-Escaping-Torment/dp/1475032544/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1484350426&sr=8-2&keywords=pain%2C+passion+%26+purpose

There’s Never Enough

An associate of mine recently shared a business idea with me. After he explained his idea he asked, “Is there too many people in the field? How can I succeed?” I would like to share with you all what I told him because many people struggle with the same question that he asked me.

Many people aren’t living out their goals and dreams because they feel there are too many people doing what they want to do. My answer to this type of thinking is, “There’s never enough”. It isn’t about how many people are doing the same thing you are doing; it’s about what you bring to the table.

Look and you will see thousands of motivational speakers and authors on social media. Should this stop someone from writing a book or posting motivational messages? No! The same goes for those wanting to become lawyers, doctors, athletes, artists, and pursuing any other endeavors. Don’t let numbers stop you from becoming who you want to be. Remember, we all have a story to share and we all inspire others differently. Your story, gifts, products, and services will touch others in ways that the next person isn’t about to do.

Just as there can never be enough love, wealth, success, and happiness; there can never be enough ideas, motivation, books, athletes, lawyers, doctors, entrepreneurs, and so on. It’s about putting your passion into whatever you decide to do and humbly realizing that no one else can do “it” like you do.

How Many Times Does A Heart Break?

How many times does a heart break?

Is a heart pieced back together, if so how?

Or, is a broken heart always broken and are we in denial?

Does one cry until their pain is not felt anymore mean their heart is mended?

Or, is it that they push their pain so far down that they have forgotten that their heart is broken?

They say time heals all.

Tell this to the souls who have seen death of a loved one many times.

Ask those whose heart was broken by a former love or one who has fell short of accomplishing their life’s dreams.

Does a broken heart keep breaking into pieces or does a heart turn cold?

Because with so much sadness in the world a heart cannot remain whole.

The only way a heart can keep breaking is by its broken pieces to be broken into more pieces

The only way a heart doesn’t feel pain is by the heart turning cold.

I ask you, can a heart once broken ever be made whole?

Mixing it Up and Getting Dirty with the Hottest DJ in the Game.

Diana Hawkes is a beautiful ambitious go getter who is turning heads all around the country. Captivating ears with her musical blends is just one reason all eyes and ears are staying tuned to her every move. Dirty Di isn’t your average DJ; the Hampton, VA native has a drive that is unmatched and is dead serious about building her empire. Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr. and 4-U-Nique Publishing goes one-on-on and gets dirty with this unique DJ to learn the keys to her success.

VLBJ: What inspired you to become a DJ?

DJ Dirty Di: My dad and brother inspired me to be a DJ; they both used to DJ. I would attend the events with them and perform dance moves while they were on stage.

VLBJ: You are in an industry that is male dominated. You being a lady DJ and a successful one at that is pretty unique; how did you overcome any obstacles you may have faced on your journey?

DJ Dirty Di: Well a lot of the males in the DJ industry have helped me become the DJ I am today. The only obstacle I’ve faced so far is guys trying to mix business with pleasure, but that’s it.

VLBJ: If someone wanted to become a DJ, what advice would you offer them?

DJ Dirty Di: I would say learn about the craft and all of the equipment you would need first. Then watch DJ tutorials on YouTube, if you don’t know any DJ that can teach you some techniques.

VLBJ: I’m a huge Nas fan probably the biggest one you’ll ever meet. Who’s your favorite Hip Hop artist?

DJ Dirty Di: My favorite Hip Hop artist is Nas. I’ve been a fan since 93′, so I don’t if you’re the biggest fan or not, lol.

VLBJ: What other music genres are you interested in?

DJ Dirty DI: I love all music but my favs are R & B and Hip Hop. I also like Pop, Go-Go, Reggae and Country music.

VLBJ: They call you DJ Dirty Di? How did you get the name Dirty?

DJ Dirty Di: I got the name Dirty from the Michael Jackson song “Dirty Diana“. My real name is Diana; I was named after Diana Ross, the same person MJ wrote the song about lol. Once that song came out it was a wrap because everyone called me Dirty after that. I’m nothing like the song though, lol.

VLBJ: If you could be anything in the world what would you be?

DJ Dirty Di: I would be exactly what I am, A DJ!

VLBJ: If you could work with or have a conversation with anybody past, present, or in the future, who would they be?

DJ Dirty Di: I would love to work with Nas, Angie Martinez, Taraji P. Henson, Big Tigger, Beyonce, Karen Civil, and Rihanna.

VLBJ: What kind of books do you like to read?

DJ Dirty Di: I love to read anything about the Hip-Hop Culture, Urban Fiction, and Astrology.

VLBJ: What’s the last book you read?

DJ Dirty Di: The last book I read was The 48 Laws of Power.

VLBJ: I have a few of your mixtapes; have to tell you I love them. What is your method to putting together a successful mixtape?

DJ Dirty Di: Thank you so much for downloading my mixtape. I really appreciate it. My method to putting together a mixtape is coming up with a name for the mixtape and then finding songs that can relate to the title.

VLBJ: Where can our followers find your mixtapes?

DJ Dirty Di: All of my mixtapes can be found on my website www.DJDIRTYDI.com. They can also be found on Mixcloud, AudioMack, and a couple are on Datpiff; just search DJ DIRTY DI.

VLBJ: Where can we hear you DJ?

DJ Dirty Di: You can hear me DJ on CheeseTownRadio.com every Sunday from 1pm-3pm by downloading the CheeseTown Radio app or listening on www.CheeseTownRadio.com. I spin at various locations and they are all posted on my Instagram page @DJDIRTYDI

VLBJ: Do you have any upcoming events or promotions?

DJ Dirty Di: The next upcoming event I have will be the 4th Annual Heartbeat Gala at Half Moone in Norfolk,VA, on Friday, February 3, 2017. I’m dropping my calendar and my Love Below vol. 2 mixtape in February. My new TV show “Dirty’s Den” comes out in March on VAMTV.com.

VLBJ: What are goals do you have for the New Year?

DJ Dirty Di: My goals for the New Year are to drop a mixtape every month, launch my new TV show, and work on my brand.

VLBJ: Where can your fans follow you? Do you have a website and any social media profiles?

DJ Dirty Di: Yes, fans can follow me on Instagram, Twitter, and SnapChat by following DJ Dirty Di. My Facebook name is Diana “DJ Dirty Di’ Nicole and can like my DJ Dirty Di page. My website is www.DJDIRTYDI.com

VLBJ: What message do you want to leave anyone reading this interview with?

DJ Dirty Di: You can do anything you set your mind to. Don’t let anyone discourage you from your plan and NEVER give up.

Don’t Forget to Download the DJ Dirty Di App Now from Google Play or the App Store!!

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Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr is the author of You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving. Copyright© 2017 http://www.vidbuggs.com. Copyright © 2017 http://www.4-U-NiquePublishing.com. Material is copyrighted but free to repost with proper listed credit, including our website addresses.

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Take A Look Inside

Success

Welcome Back

TAKE RISKS, GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Inside of the Mind of a Saved Warrior Who’s Soul Bouncing His Way to the Top.

7 Easy Steps for Creating Balance In Your Life

1) Me Time.

2) Plan and Life Set Goals in Every Area of Your.

3) Learn How to Say No!

4) Take Risks and Make Sacrifices.

5) Reflection.

6) Take a Break.

7) Exercise.

True Kings Society – Empowering the Community Through Love and Hope

Pain, Passion, and Purpose.

There’s Never Enough

How Many Times Does A Heart Break?

Mixing it Up and Getting Dirty with the Hottest DJ in the Game.