For years, I’ve poured my heart, soul, and endless hours into my craft. I’ve built my business on passion, dedication, and a genuine desire to create something beautiful for my clients. I’ve often been the one to go above and beyond, offering my services, time, and talent without hesitation. I’ve done it because I love what I do and because I genuinely care about the people I work with.
But recently, I’ve reached a turning point—one that’s been a long time coming. I’ve noticed a pattern: my generosity, time and time again, has been taken for granted. I’ve watched as people I’ve helped, people I’ve shown up for without expecting anything in return, turn around and pay someone else for the same service I provide. And every time, it stings. It’s like a slap in the face, a painful reminder that my kindness is being used rather than appreciated.
**Understanding My Worth**
I want to be clear: I understand that sometimes people want to try something different, and that’s okay—more than okay. I fully respect the desire to explore other options. But what’s not okay is using my kindness, expecting my service at no cost, only to go elsewhere and willingly pay someone else. It’s hurtful, and I’ve realized it’s not something I can continue to tolerate.
To those who have done this: it’s not okay to treat people this way. It’s not okay to take advantage of someone’s generosity, especially when that person is trying to support you and your needs. You may not have realized the impact your actions had, but they hurt. They made me feel unseen, unappreciated, and like my work didn’t hold the same value to you as it does to those who respect what I do.
In the past, I’ve brushed off the hurt feelings and made excuses: “Maybe they didn’t realize the value,” or “Maybe they just wanted a change.” But I’ve come to understand that the real issue wasn’t them—it was me not standing firm in my worth. My feelings were hurt, yes, but this realization has transformed me. Embracing my value and recognizing that my time, talent, and experience are worth so much more has been a powerful shift in my mindset.
**Gratitude for Those Who Value Me**
There are so many wonderful clients who see my value, show up, and treat me with the respect I deserve. They pay what I’m worth without question, knowing they’re receiving my absolute best. To those clients, I am forever grateful. You are my people. You remind me daily why I started this journey in the first place, and it’s because of you that I continue to push myself to create, grow, and deliver exceptional work.
**A New Chapter: No More Handouts**
Moving forward, I’m focusing my energy on those who value me and what I bring to the table. I’m done being the “no-cost option” or the fallback when someone doesn’t want to pay. I’ve worked too hard and invested too much to let my worth be overlooked. No more handouts, no more exceptions. If you love what I do, I welcome your support wholeheartedly. If not, that’s okay, too—but I will no longer allow my kindness to be taken advantage of.
This isn’t just about business; it’s about self-respect. I’ve learned that understanding my worth has transformed me into someone I am truly proud of. I’ve earned my place, and I’m standing firm in it. So, here’s to valuing ourselves, setting boundaries, and knowing that we deserve to be supported in the same way we show up for others.
To those who have been there for me, thank you. You are the heart of my business, and I will continue to pour everything I have into our work together. And to those who have taken advantage of my generosity, I hope you can take a moment to reflect and understand that supporting those who support you is how we all grow. We all deserve to be valued, and it starts with recognizing the worth of those around us.
0 Comments