Here’s how an entrepreneur revolutionized her financial outlook and discovered her true value.
In the summer of 2008, I realized, “If other women can earn money from home, I can, too.”
Just days before giving birth to my daughter, I received a phone call that made me furious. I learned that someone else was promoted and given a raise at the bookstore I had managed for five years.
After calming down, I began formulating a plan to make extra income while adapting to motherhood. My aim was to contribute a few hundred dollars to the family finances each month from home.
After all, I had just stepped away from a job that paid $28,000 annually, where I worked 50 hours a week, managed 40 staff, and handled $5 million in annual sales. My expectations weren’t lofty.
Now, I run a business training firm, have published four books, and speak worldwide on entrepreneurship and marketing. My current earnings exceed my former bookstore salary by over 17 times.
So what shifted? My perspective on money.
Elevating my financial aspirations
The bookstore’s justification for low pay was its “ideal work environment.” Being surrounded by books and cheap coffee is nice, but it doesn’t cover expenses or fulfill dreams.
Though I always valued my self-worth, I accepted a low net worth due to my religious studies degree and a greater passion for my work than for wealth.
After struggling to pay rent and car bills while living on ramen, I confided to my co-manager, “I should be making more.” I felt ashamed, questioning why I wanted more.
I became stagnant, doubting my ability to find another job despite my qualifications. But after my daughter arrived in July 2008, I seized the moment to reinvent myself.
Reinventing myself
I launched my first website in January 2009 and soon started earning a small monthly income through advertising and social media teaching.
I was content at first, having met my goal of adding a few hundred dollars to our income.
Yet, I pondered my future and my daughter’s, envisioning flexibility, meaningful work, and a legacy to leave behind.
Gradually, I recognized that more than I ever imagined was possible, but it required a shift in how I viewed money and my own worth.
I continued blogging, established my brand online, and learned web design. Exactly one year after my daughter’s birth, I acquired an existing business with a loan from my credit union as a bold step forward.
With a growing audience to inspire and enrich, I embraced this responsibility. Soon, business owners approached me for additional services like web design and coaching.
Growth and confronting tough questions
Then came the uncomfortable question: What’s your fee?
I was clueless. My entire life, I’d been told my worth was between $8-14 an hour. Quoting $25 per hour for those initial jobs felt like a victory.
However, it didn’t take long to realize that rate wasn’t sustainable. More importantly, I discovered the true value of my services far exceeded a few hundred dollars.
I absorbed insights from friends and colleagues, gradually increasing my rates. I began researching what others in my field charged per hour, project, or client.
Then something remarkable happened. As my rates climbed, so did my reputation. I collaborated with higher-performing clients and could concentrate on projects I loved, ultimately transforming my services into a profitable training program.
“I didn’t get lucky. I built this.”
Reflecting on my journey, I never envisioned this outcome. I couldn’t have imagined owning a beautiful home, supporting my partner’s passion, and enjoying my work daily.
I didn’t get lucky; I crafted this success step by step by recognizing the value of my contributions, translating that into appealing offers, and pricing them for growth.
Many entrepreneurs are poised to seize similar opportunities. You’re likely already evaluating your unique offerings and how they can save others time or money. You’re ready to stop being undervalued or viewed as expendable.
Don’t let self-imposed limitations on earnings hinder your creative thinking about your potential and income.
