Two things influence your affluence: your attitude toward money, and your feelings about yourself. In order to ask for money, you need to believe in yourself. Fees typically depend on where you are located and the type of work you do. First, consider all the costs involved in running your business such as rent, utilities, phone, insurance, advertising, licenses, and your time. These expenses must be taken into account to determine the level of income needed to keep your business viable.

There are several ways to set fees. One is to set high prices to target a small percentage of the population. This works if there is no competition and your service is innovative. Another strategy is to set your prices to the going rate, or state a lower rate than the standard rate. You also could offer a sliding scale or introductory rates. The decision as to how to set fees will require a variety of considerations, and will depend on your preferences and fair market value.

Clients appreciate flexibility, and offering discounts and incentives will make a difference in how to attract clients. For instance, an incentive program such as a certificate for 50% off for a client referral can bring in valuable new clients.

Try not to ask for too much money at first. This is often the biggest mistake a new practitioner makes. Can you afford $50 for a massage? If not, what would you pay? Would you be able to still have a great business if you are making $25-30 per hour? Is that what you are making at a job you do for someone else? If you are working for $10 per hour at a job you don't like, perhaps you should be satisfied with making $25 per hour instead of $50 per hour as you get your business started and your neme better known in your community. Be realistic. Know your market. You will have more clients if you charge less per hour than if you charge more. Once you are well-known and have more clients than you can fit in, that is the time to raise your prices to the next level.

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