Embracing Worth: Why Creators Should Charge for Their Craft
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Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Working for Free
In the realm of creativity, writers and artists navigate challenges that many other professions seldom face. Imagine your plumber presenting an invoice after fixing your flooded bathroom, or your brain surgeon billing you for removing a tumor. You wouldn't criticize them for seeking payment. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, when creators ask for compensation, they are often met with disdain.
This perception may arise from the unique ability of writers and creators to conjure something from nothing—transforming ideas into tangible products. Unfortunately, part of the issue lies with us. As creators, we often toil away without compensation, producing free content and investing years into projects, all in the hope that our efforts will eventually yield returns. This cycle perpetuates an unhealthy expectation of free offerings among consumers, who now feel entitled to endless free music, movies, and other forms of entertainment.
The situation is likely to worsen before it improves, as 'free' has become the new standard. If you struggle to escape this cycle, you may find yourself giving away more and more for little to no return.
So, how can we, as writers and creators, tackle the 'free' epidemic?
- Don’t Apologize for Charging: There’s no shame in requesting payment for the value you provide.
- Avoid Over-Giving: Don't feel compelled to give everything away in hopes of receiving donations or support.
- Focus on What to Do: Share abundant 'what to do' content, but reserve the 'how to do it' details for paying clients.
Remember, time is irreplaceable. Don’t let anyone pressure you into feeling guilty for trying to earn a living from what you love.
It’s crucial to recognize that your time and talent are valuable. I frequently receive requests for free products from individuals sharing personal tragedies—this tactic can feel manipulative, and it’s essential to not fall prey to it. Charity should stem from genuine desire, not from guilt.
You have every right to set your prices as you see fit. The market will ultimately determine the value of your work—perhaps you’re undervaluing yourself, or perhaps your contributions are worth much more than you realize.
Additionally, building an email list is vital. Your email list acts as a safety net against obscurity. Owning your audience means owning your business. Offering something for free in exchange for a subscriber's email address can be a smart strategy, as a single qualified email can be incredibly valuable for your creative endeavors.
When you're ready to start your email list, I have something for you…
And yes, it’s FREE!
I've designed a comprehensive email masterclass specifically for you (external link). It took me months of hard work to create this masterclass, known as Tribe 1K.
Now is the perfect time to either kick off or expand your email list. I’ll guide you on how to attract your first 1,000 (or your next 1,000) readers without spending a dime on advertising. My past students include bestselling authors, professors, and everyday creatives, all of whom have successfully leveraged their email lists to achieve freedom in their work.
Securing your email list is essential for maintaining reader engagement. Relying solely on social media is insufficient; you must start building your list before you find yourself in urgent need of it.
Reserve your spot before an enrollment fee is implemented.
My Tribe 1K Email Masterclass is valued at $97 and includes numerous templates and checklists. Enroll today! (external link to my page)
August Birch (also known as the Book Mechanic) is a Michigan-based author specializing in both fiction and non-fiction. As an advocate for email marketing among writers and creators, August assists independent creatives in achieving freedom through their craft. When not writing, he enjoys time with his wife and son.
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Chapter 2: The Value of Your Work
As a creator, it’s essential to understand that your work has intrinsic value.
The first video, "Why You Should Work for Free," discusses the implications of offering your services without charge and the potential consequences.
The second video, "Should I Work For Free?" elaborates on the reasons why working for free can undermine your value as a creator.