The Ask – and the Spiritual Practice of Silence

Let’s face it – for most of us, asking for money is one of our least favorite things. Interestingly, receiving money is usually a favorite!

When it comes to the exchange of energy and services, it’s important to know that this act is as sacred as the ancient rituals we revere. I invite you to consider a pivotal practice often overlooked: the art of asking to be paid—and then, gracefully, holding silence.

This isn't just about transactions; it's a dance of dignity, a testament to value, and a pathway to finding those souls you're meant to serve.

Strike a Pose (And Hold It)

Imagine this: You've just poured your heart into explaining the value of what you offer, sharing insights that could very well be the spiritual equivalent of discovering fire. You state your price with the grace of a gazelle and then—here's the crucial part—you zip it. This silence isn't empty; it's full of power, respect, and confidence. It says, "I honor my value and your ability to recognize it." In a world where we're used to filling silences, mastering this pause can feel like learning a new dance. Awkward? Maybe at first. Empowering? Absolutely.

Why Your Silence Speaks Volumes

Silence is the canvas on which the client paints their decision. It's an invitation for reflection, not a void to be rushed with discount offers or justifications. This moment of pause allows both parties to connect deeply with the value being offered and received. It's a subtle reminder that what we, as spiritual entrepreneurs, offer is not just a service but a transformation.

Attracting the Right Souls

Now, let's talk about magnetism—not the kind that sticks your favorite fridge magnets in place, but the kind that draws your ideal clients to you. When you value what you do enough to ask for fair compensation and then hold space for acceptance, you send out a cosmic signal. This signal attracts individuals who not only value your services but are also the ones you can most powerfully impact. It's like setting out a spiritual beacon that says, "Here, find the transformation you've been seeking."

Sustaining Your Sacred Service

Here's a not-so-secret secret: You need to be compensated not just fairly but generously to sustain the work you do. This isn't about accumulating wealth for the sake of luxury (though a little pampering never hurt anyone); it's about ensuring you can continue to serve, grow, and impact lives. Your spiritual business isn't just a business; it's a calling. And for this calling to sustain you in return, the energy exchange must be balanced. This means getting paid what you need is not just a necessity; it's a sacred responsibility.

Facing the Challenges with Grace and Grit

We're acutely aware of the challenges the modern world throws our way. Economic uncertainties, the balancing act of digital nomadism, the constant buzz of social media demanding our attention—these are just a few hurdles on the spiritual entrepreneur's path. Yet, within these challenges lies the opportunity for growth, resilience, and deeper connection with our purpose and our people.

Your Silence, Your Strength

Asking to be paid and embracing the silence that follows is more than a business strategy; it's a spiritual practice. It's about respecting yourself, your clients, and the sacred exchange of services that enriches lives. So, the next time you find yourself in that pivotal moment, take a deep breath, remember your worth, and let the silence do the talking. The right clients, the ones whose lives you're meant to touch, will hear you loud and clear.

And if the price is not acceptable to the client? Be caring and compassionate. Say something like, “Thanks for being open with me about what is workable for you. I’ll be sure to reach out to you when I’m doing group work or when I run a special. It’s been so great to meet you and I know our paths will cross again.” I can’t count the number of clients who have made their way back to me later, willing to meet my price.

Silence is a gift you give to your prospective client. It allows for the inner knowing to influence the decision-making process. In the words of Deepak Chopra, “To make the right choices in life, you have to get in touch with your soul. To do this, you need to experience solitude, which most people are afraid of, because in the silence you hear the truth and know the solutions...”