You don’t need fireworks to declare independence from what’s holding you back. If you’re a creative professional—designer, copywriter, brand strategist—you’ve probably felt it:
• That voice that says you’re not good enough.
• The awkward pause when a client asks your rate and you lowball it.
• The pressure to be a strategist, a tech whiz, a social media expert and a designer… for $500.
• And more recently: the fear that AI is making clients question whether your work is even worth paying for.
That’s not just impostor syndrome. That’s the result of being in a system that keeps asking more and offering less.
Let’s talk about what you actually deserve—and why AI can’t replace what only you can do.
Impostor Syndrome Isn’t Just in Your Head
Most creatives talk about impostor syndrome like it’s a personal mindset problem.
But when clients expect the world for pennies—and you’ve been trained to say yes to everything just to land the job—it’s no wonder you question your worth. You’re not broken. The system is.
And the truth is: you’re showing up, creating value, and making things that didn’t exist before. That’s real. That’s powerful. That’s worthy of respect!
Low Rates Keep the Lie Alive
Pricing isn’t just about money. It’s about boundaries, sustainability, and self-worth.
When you consistently undercharge, you reinforce the lie that your work isn’t valuable. That your time doesn’t matter. That your expertise is optional.
Raising your rates isn’t greedy. It’s necessary—for your wellbeing, your workflow, and your future. It’s also professional. When you feel well-compensated, you’re able to show up fully. You’re not cutting corners. You’re not rushing to the next gig. You have the time, energy, and pride to deliver thoughtful work that goes about and beyond. And your clients? They benefit from that extra layer of value.
Want help crunching the numbers before your next proposal?
→ Check out “Should You Raise Prices Mid-Year? What the Numbers Say”
You’re Not Being Replaced—You’re Being Underestimated
Let’s be real: it’s not that you believe AI can do your job better.
It’s that prospective clients and employers are starting to act like it can.
They want you to be faster. Cheaper. Interchangeable.
But here’s what they don’t understand:
AI can generate content. It can remix ideas. It can spit out templates.
But it can’t see what you see.
It can’t capture nuance. It doesn’t feel. It doesn’t collaborate.
It doesn’t bring your lived experience, your creative gut instinct, or your human touch.
I saw that firsthand with the graphic designer (the amazingly creative Mary, of WordArt who created the logo for my business. Here’s what she shared with me:
“The ‘I’ in PRIMA is intentionally lowercase and represents a little human 😊 standing tall at the centre of your name. It represents the individual client, placed right at the heart of your business. You could even interpret it as a strong, steady pillar—the foundation your clients’ success is built on.”
“The word ‘Solutions’ is subtly emphasized, with a flowing underline that transitions into organic plant forms. It connects practical solutions to growth, forward motion, and nurturing—exactly how you support your clients.”
“The calming blue and vibrant pink reflect a balance of expertise and creativity. The upward flow of the plant symbolizes progress, trust, and transformation. And the continuous lines? A visual cue for relationships that are natural, supportive, and deeply human.”
That’s not something AI would design. That’s something a human felt!
Freedom Looks Like This
This July, I’m inviting you to declare your own independence:
- From pricing fearfully
- From chasing clients who don’t respect your craft
- From trying to be everything to everyone
- From internalizing the myth that you’re ‘replaceable”
More Support for Your Creative Business
From Proposal to Paid: Mapping a Profitable Client Onboarding Workflow
Are Your Projects Draining You Dry? Spotting Financial Red Flags Early
Financial Forecasting for Creatives: Think Like a Studio Without a CFO
Another Resource You Might Appreciate:
Are Creative People Susceptible to Impostor Syndrome? – ISI
Want to talk about building a business that supports your life—not the other way around?
Let’s chat. Book your complimentary 20-minute call here
But maybe do it after July 1st and July 4th.
Enjoy your holiday with a feeling of freedom and joy.
