Whether you’re struggling to raise your rates, avoid burnout, or even believe you can hit consistent $5k–$10k months, your money mindset is part of the problem—and part of the solution
Rachel Meltzer
Money can feel like the final boss in your freelance writing journey. Whether you’re struggling to raise your rates, avoid burnout, or even believe you can hit consistent $5k–$10k months, your money mindset is part of the problem—and part of the solution. In this episode of The Guidebook, we talk about what shapes your relationship with money, how to untangle it, and what it takes to believe something different. This blog expands on that episode with even more journal prompts and tools to help you move forward.
What Is Money Mindset—and Why Does It Matter for Freelancers?
Growing up in a capitalist society, everything around you has contributed to your money mindset. From marketing and advertising to how your parents handled money to the community you grew up in, you’ve been ingrained with cultural and familial ideas about money your entire life.
As a freelancer, those internalized beliefs affect how you price your services, how you talk to clients about money, and how confident you feel about your income goals. The good news? You can change your money mindset. And it doesn’t involve manifesting or magical thinking—it involves reflection, belief, and math.
Step 1: Ask Yourself the Right Questions
Healing your money mindset starts with awareness. You need to understand what’s actually going on under the surface.
This money mindset workbook is filled with questions that can help. Here are a few to consider:
- What was your relationship with money growing up?
- What are your conversations with money like today?
- How do you wish your conversations about money went?
- Does money solve any issues in your life right now?
- How can money relieve points of stress in your life?
- How do you feel about asking for money in exchange for your services?
Spend some time journaling your answers. Write without judgment. These questions aren’t about shame—they’re about clarity.
Step 2: Believe You Can Make More Money
Yeah, yeah—“Just believe!” sounds cheesy. But here’s the thing: if you don’t believe it’s possible to make $10k+ per month, you’ll subconsciously make choices that keep you stuck.
To believe it, surround yourself with people who are already doing it. Find a coach. Join a community of freelancers with big goals. Borrow belief from people further along than you.
Then back that belief with a plan:
- Set a clear, realistic goal
- Choose a timeline
- Break it down into actions
- Track your progress
Coaching can really help here if you’re not sure where to start. Sometimes belief needs structure.
Step 3: Do the Math (Not the Drama)
When you’re anxious about money, your brain will create drama. But your bank account doesn’t need drama—it needs data.
One of my favorite reminders from my coach, Marie from Self Growth Nerds, is this: “Are you doing the math or getting caught up in the drama?”
If you pulled out a notebook right now and ran the numbers, you’d likely see your next step:
- How many clients do you need to hit your goal?
- What would you need to charge?
- What’s your baseline monthly cost of living?
Most freelancers are closer to a sustainable income than they think—they’ve just never sat down to do the math.
Try This: Money Mindset Journal Prompts
These prompts are designed to help you explore the emotional side of your money mindset. Use them in your morning pages, before client calls, or whenever you feel stuck.
- How would it feel to step into a more powerful version of yourself?
- How would stepping up to a more profitable version of your business feel?
- What would that version of your business look like?
- What does money mindset healing look like for you?
Want more support like this every week? Join Pop Club for hot-seat coaching, money mindset tips, and more.
FAQ’s About Freelance Money Mindset
What is “money mindset,” exactly?
Money mindset is your personal belief system about money—how it works, how much you deserve, what it means to earn more, and whether you think you’re capable of doing so. It’s often shaped by your upbringing, culture, and past experiences.
Why is money mindset important for freelancers?
As a freelancer, you are the one setting your rates, negotiating with clients, and choosing how much you work. If you have limiting beliefs around money, you’re more likely to undercharge, overwork, or avoid growth opportunities.
Can I improve my money mindset without a coach?
Absolutely. Reflection, journaling, and conversations with fellow freelancers can go a long way. But if you want personalized guidance and accountability, working with a coach or joining a mastermind can help you move faster.
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