Be a Bitch or a Pushover

     Two weeks ago, I wrote about sucking at sales and reaffirmed what I need to do to improve and be more aggressive. I wrote with determination and assurance. However,  the very next day, I got a phone call from a V.I.P. and was given a production job, and I completely sold out. I took the job for a third of what I usually charge and I felt icky about it. 

     This was unusual for me, as I caved in not because I needed the money fast or was competing for the job; they approached me personally and asked me to do it like it was a favor to them. I caved because the person that asked me to do the job is someone I greatly admire and is a real superstar in the art world. The reason this person is successful and wealthy, is because they never cave in. I knew they could afford to pay what the job was worth, but they insisted it be done for much less. I had much to learn from this...


     At that point, I knew that the universe had made this person think of me and impart on me their wisdom. I stood no chance negotiating against not just a master specialist, but a literal celebrity in their field and I felt obligated to submit. I am working to be at their stature in the community and I am being blessed with their presence and teachings.

      Obviously, one does not get that far up on the ladder and not get what they want in negotiations. When haggling price, there is a delicate balance between being a bitch and being a pushover. With this person, I could have been a bitch and said, "I'm sorry, I cannot do it for less", and they would have been just be upset and found someone else to do it, but I lose out and will not get the privilege of spending time with this guru of sorts.(Plus, being a bitch is not a way to win friends in high places.) If I was a total pushover, I would have done it for free just to kiss ass...so not me!

     This was a good lesson for me. This person was neither a bitch nor even close to a pushover, but simply a real badass. The job was extremely difficult physically and took several days to complete, but it is finished. I sit here sore, (sprouting muscles only men should have), with a check on its way, and am uniquely humbled. But, I also feel like a badass for getting it done and aspire to be at the level of my client. It is an awesome balance I look forward to perfecting........some day.