There are four topics my mom always told me to avoid in public: sex, religion, politics, and money. But since we’re family, I think we can bend the rules a little, right? So, let’s talk about the big one: **money**—specifically, charging what you’re worth.

Let’s be real—how many times have you been asked to lower your rates? It’s frustrating, isn’t it? You know the time, energy, and passion you pour into your work, yet somehow, there’s always someone suggesting that you’re charging too much. And let’s not even get into the subtle (and not-so-subtle) hints that come with phrases like “It’s just a quick job” or “Can you do it for exposure?”

You’re not alone in this. We’ve all been there, facing the pressure to lower our rates to secure a client or project. But here’s a truth you need to embrace: **Your work has value, and you deserve to be paid what you’re worth.**

One of the main reasons many creatives and entrepreneurs struggle with pricing is fear. Fear of losing clients. Fear of being seen as “too expensive.” Fear of pricing ourselves out of the market. These fears can lead us to settle for less than we deserve, even when we know deep down that our work is worth more.

But here’s the thing—the right clients will always recognize your value. When you unapologetically stand firm in your pricing, you set the standard for how others perceive your work. Confidence in your rates equals confidence in your business, and that’s magnetic to the clients you actually want to attract.

When someone questions your rates or asks for a discount, pause and ask yourself: Am I pricing myself fairly? If the answer is yes, stick to it. You’ve earned the right to charge what you’re worth, and you deserve clients who respect that.

Remember, negotiating your value is a slippery slope. Lowering your prices might win you a client in the short term, but it sets a precedent that can hurt you in the long run. The clients who appreciate your value will be more than willing to pay your full rate because they know they’re getting quality.

As the year winds down, now is the perfect time to reassess your pricing. With Q4 upon us, take a moment to evaluate your rates and make sure they reflect the true value of your work. Don’t be afraid to increase your prices—especially if you’ve gained more experience, refined your skills, or delivered exceptional results for your clients.

Setting your rates isn’t just about covering your costs or making a living. It’s about communicating the worth of your expertise and the impact your work has on your clients. When you confidently set your prices, you’re also setting the tone for the type of clients you attract. And trust me, the right ones will respect your boundaries and value your work.

Here’s the thing: 

When you set your price, you’re setting the standard for how others view your work. The confidence you show in your pricing equals confidence in your business, and the right clients will be drawn to that.

So, as you move forward, take some time to revisit your pricing and ensure it aligns with your true worth. Don’t hesitate to say no to anyone who doesn’t see the value in what you offer. You deserve to be paid what you’re worth, and you deserve clients who respect that.

Here’s to knowing your worth and sticking by it! 

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