Navigating Money Mindsets in the Creative Industry: Unraveling Blocks and Embracing Abundance
The creative industry is a dynamic space, constantly evolving and challenging our perceptions about success, worth, and financial stability. In a recent exploration of money and abundance blocks within my social media community, the responses were enlightening. One common belief that emerged was the notion that success often requires accepting unpaid opportunities. As creatives, it's a dilemma many of us have grappled with, leading to a profound self-discovery journey.
Navigating Unpaid Opportunities
Personal experiences vary, but a common thread is the oscillation between embracing and rejecting unpaid work. Some find hyper-focusing on paid opportunities vital for energy preservation, while others believe in the power of constant creation to attract more. The key lies in aligning and re-aligning with oneself in this ever-evolving industry. It's about recognizing the seasons where collaboration is enriching and when it's crucial to say no to unpaid ventures. A central question arises: Will this project bring energy, alignment, and fun, or will it drain these vital elements?
TIP: Create your own filter in which you run potential projects through. Get clear on what is aligned for you.
Self-Worth and Setting Rates
Another prevalent belief centers around undervaluing oneself by setting low rates to secure projects. Determining rates is a delicate process that involves testing, aligning with personal values, and acknowledging the time invested. The journey often entails years of trial and error. The Money Mindset Exercise, and delving into survival archetypes, becomes a powerful tool for self-discovery. By understanding and reconciling one's worth, a shift from survival to abundance mentalities happen, inviting better-paying and more aligned opportunities.
Trusting the Unfolding of Events
The fear of quoting too high and potentially losing a job is a valid concern. However, my experiences reveal that trusting the unfolding of events is a powerful mindset shift. Quoting higher rates may lead to initial setbacks, but often, something better emerges. Trusting the process, no matter how 'woo woo' it may sound, has proven transformative. Each closed chapter opens the door to unexpected opportunities, providing valuable lessons, and often setting the stage for something even more aligned.
Let me give you a recent example: I just bid to direct a big motion job. I had really great feedback on my bid, but ultimately did not get the job. I know for a fact that I was qualified for that job, put an amazing bid forward and BOOM - didn’t get it! I was bummed, sure. But I am not lingering on losing it. Instead, I spend about 10 minutes letting out my frustrations, I then list the positives (now I have an amazing pitch deck outline ready to go for the next one, I am now on the client’s radar, I am leaving that time open for another amazing opportunity to come my way). By doing this, I let out the negative energy, focus on what I have and then use that to propel me forward, into the next thing. This happens often, and it's just part of the cycles of my business.
Conclusion
In a perfect world, creatives wouldn't operate from a survival mentality. The real work lies in shifting mindset, understanding self-worth, and navigating the delicate balance between basic needs and deservingness. As we continue to explore the nuances of money and abundance blocks, one thing becomes clear: the more we stand in our worth, the more aligned and better-paying projects gravitate towards us. It's a continuous journey, but the rewards are worth it. Trust the process, embrace your worth, and watch the creative landscape unfold in surprising and fulfilling ways.