‘A year ago, I underwent a three-month coaching programme with John. I’m a self-employed copywriter. At the time, I was financially stuck. For years, I’d been in the habit of undercharging, even though I knew I was worth more, much more. As a result, I was finding it hard to pay the bills and it was causing me constant stress.
John helped me realise that it was my own thinking that was keeping me stuck.
Every time I prepared a quote, unhelpful thoughts would cross my mind such as: “Is that price fair? Would I pay that fee? What if it’s too expensive and the prospect doesn’t accept it? I’d love to do this work so much that I’d do it for no money…”
Through the coaching, I gradually learned to disconnect myself from my thoughts, especially the unhelpful ones.
I started increasing my prices and issuing quotes that were more realistic. I didn’t lose a single client. As if by magic, I won some corporate clients that I felt I could charge a ‘proper’ fee. I also attracted some regular well-paid training work.
One year on, and my accountant has just done my tax return.
“I don’t believe it! You’ve made three times as much money this year as last year,” he told me.
I’m still working as many hours as before, but with fewer clients and for more pay.
It’s more fulfilling, has allowed me to do some home improvements that were much needed, and my levels of stress have reduced.
I had no idea the tension I was under showed so much. These days, people tell me I look more serene.
In fact, I recently bumped into an old workmate I hadn’t seen for ages. At first, she didn’t recognise me, as she thought I was my younger sister.
I credit the ideas that John introduced me to.’