Confidence in Your Value: Charging What You Are Worth

The first time someone asked me my rates, I froze. I had no idea what to say. I wanted to sound professional, but deep down, I was terrified they would think I was asking for too much, or worse, laugh in my face. So, I did what many people do, I undersold myself.

I remember that moment clearly. A potential client had reached out, interested in my writing. When they asked for my rates, I panicked and blurted out the lowest number that came to mind. It was embarrassingly low. They agreed immediately, no negotiation, no hesitation. That should have been a win, right? Instead, my stomach sank. If they agreed that fast, it meant I had priced myself too low.

That project drained me. I poured hours into it, obsessing over every detail. At the end of it, the client was thrilled, but I felt resentful. The effort I put in was worth way more than what I was paid. At some point, I even considered booking a flight to Taiwan just to personally demand my worth. That was the first time I realized something, when you charge too little, you do not just lose money, you lose motivation.

I had to change my mindset. I started researching how others in my field priced their work. The numbers I found shocked me. Some were charging ten times what I was, with less experience. The difference is that they believed in their value, while I was out here contemplating international airfare just to demand mine in person, because clearly, nothing says confidence like standing at an airport gate, passport in hand, fueled by pure frustration and a dramatic sense of injustice. I had been treating pricing like a favor, not a business decision.

The first time I quoted a higher rate, my voice almost shook, but I said it anyway. The client did not flinch. They said yes. That was the moment I realized the only person who needed convincing was me. It was not easy at first. Some potential clients walked away, but the right ones stayed. The ones who saw my value did not argue. They respected the work, and more importantly, they respected me.

Pricing is never just about money, it's about self-respect. When you undervalue yourself, you attract people who do the same. When you own your worth, you start working with people who appreciate what you bring to the table.

Take Action Now: Claim the Value You Deserve

If you are struggling with pricing, start small. Say the number out loud until it stops feeling ridiculous. Stand by it. The people who see your value will pay for it. The rest, let them go. There will always be someone willing to pay what you are worth.

Take one service where you know you are underpricing and adjust it for your next client. It is not about charging for the sake of it; it is about recognizing the impact you create.

Want strategies you can apply today to charge what you’re worth?

I am learning as I go and sharing every lesson with you. Subscribe to my blog for real, practical insights on pricing, freelancing, and making money on your own terms. Do not just work, get paid what you deserve!


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