It's August 2023, and I'm looking back at a transformative period in my life. A time of realizing and admitting to myself that one of my greatest growth areas has been getting comfortable with charging what I believe is a fair and high price for my valuable services.
You see, historically, I've had a complicated relationship with money. It hasn't been easy. There were times when I linked it with greed and exploitation, things I'd never want to associate myself with. But I've come to understand that money, in its essence, is bottled time-energy. It's a reflection of the value one provides.
I know I'm a person with valuable talents, a great network, and an energizing spirit that can make a real difference to any number of projects—even entire countries or networks of countries. So, it's high time I started valuing my time more than I ever did before. That's not to say I'll charge everyone the same amount. I still believe in helping others, in supporting those who might not be able to pay the full price, especially if I believe in their cause.
But as a default, I have to shed any shame I've had in the past about charging what my services are worth. And when I offer a discount or favor, the recipient should feel fortunate for the momentary concession.
This year is about growth, and I've set myself some success metrics. I want to feel a twinge of discomfort when stating that my services come at a high price. That unease will be an indicator that I'm on the right track. If I'm too comfortable, then I know something is off.
What I've come to realize is that by undervaluing my services, I'm doing a disservice to both myself and others. I'm limiting my ability to do what I love and move from place to place providing value. Moreover, I'm robbing others of understanding the true worth of what I offer.
So here's to change, growth, and embracing the true value of what I bring to the world. It's a journey that feels empowering and right, and it's one I'm glad to be on.
It's not just about money; it's about recognizing my worth and standing firmly in that realization. It's about finding that balance where I can provide value and also be valued by others. That's my goal, and I'm committed to making it happen.