We recently had the chance to connect with Britney Lauf and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Britney, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think a lot of people are quietly carrying more than they let on—not always something you can see, but a mix of stress, pressure, and emotional weight that builds over time. It’s feeling like you’re falling behind while everyone else seems to have it together. It’s the quiet stress of living paycheck to paycheck, even with a ‘good’ job—juggling bills, groceries, and unexpected expenses in a brutal economy. The cost of everything keeps rising, but wages—and energy—don’t. It’s the guilt of wondering if you’re doing enough as a parent, the pressure to stay present when your mind is exhausted, and the constant comparison game fueled by social media. People are exhausted mentally, emotionally, and financially, but they all hide it behind smiles, busy schedules, and ‘I’m fine’s’. So many are silently carrying more than they’ll ever say out loud. So, let’s give a little grace every day—we’re all out here just doing our best.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’ve always believed in the power of storytelling—not just as a way to entertain, but as a way to inspire, empower, and connect. My journey as a children’s book author isn’t just about writing books; it’s about making a difference in the lives of kids who need to see themselves in the stories they read.
I knew I wanted to create something meaningful, something that would last beyond my time. I want children—especially those who feel left out, different, or like they don’t quite fit in—to know that they are seen, that they are capable, and that their differences don’t define their limitations. They define their strengths.
I don’t see myself as an influencer, but rather as an advocate, a mentor, and a champion for kids who need to hear: You can do this. You are enough. You belong. It’s not just about accomplishing one specific goal, but about helping kids discover the confidence to chase their dreams—whatever those may be.
Every child deserves to feel included, to see themselves represented, and to believe in their own potential. Through my books, I hope to create stories that remind them of that. If even one child feels empowered because of something I wrote, then I’ve done what I set out to do.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that I had to be perfect to be loved or accepted. I thought making mistakes meant I wasn’t good enough. Over time, I’ve learned that imperfection is part of being human—and that my worth isn’t tied to being flawless. I still don’t like making mistakes, but now I try to see them as opportunities to learn and grow instead of proof that I’ve failed.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
I used to think failure meant I wasn’t cut out for something and that it was a sign to give up. But after failing hard, I realized failure doesn’t mean you’re not capable. It just means you need to shift something. Now, when things don’t work out, I try to look at them from a different angle or step into a different pair of shoes. I don’t want to have a one-track mind. I want to stay open—curious, flexible, and willing to adjust. Failure taught me that sometimes the goal stays the same, but the path has to change.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
I believe that small acts of kindness and laughter ripple farther than we’ll ever know. A gentle word, a moment of patience, or simply making someone feel seen—it might feel small to you, but it can leave a lasting mark, even if you never witness its impact. I can’t prove it, but I believe that laughter—especially the unfiltered kind from a child—is better medicine than anything you’ll find in a bottle. That kind of joy is healing, and if something I do helps create more of it, then that’s enough for me.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
I realize I’ve been dimming my own creative spark—the part of me that wants to play, experiment, and dream without worrying about whether it “makes sense” or “pays off.” I’ve spent so much time being the responsible adult—juggling deadlines, to-do lists, and everyone else’s needs—that I’ve muted the joy of simply creating for the sheer fun of it.
Lately I’m reminding myself that play isn’t a luxury; it’s fuel for fresh ideas and deeper connections. By letting myself sketch out wild story ideas, doodle without purpose, or even take a dance break in the kitchen, I’m bringing that light back to full brightness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://a.co/d/fmInCT9
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britneys_story_nook/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BritneysStoryNook/
