Why Would I Even Consider Not Charging Money?
Maybe it’s because I’m a bit of a dreamer.
But no matter how radical the idea may be, it keeps coming up in my mind in various forms. Just last month I started offering Open Sessions for free, and I can’t tell you how good it feels to offer something with no strings attached.
Maybe I just want more of that good feeling. For example, when I serve on the Helpline for free a couple hours a month, I always come away feeling really good.
There’s something about giving without any aim of getting that really resonates with me.
But I’m a Practical Man Too
I know that if I don’t make any money at all, I won’t be able to continue “giving the store away” forever. Eventually, I’d have to find another job. That’s just the reality of the world we live in.
But I’m tempted to try a compromise solution. What if I made everything free and also made it possible to make donations? I could even convert my business into a non-profit organization.
In other words, donations would make it possible for me to have an income. And those same donations would allow everyone to take advantage of the programs I offer free of charge.
It Opens The Possibility for Volunteering As Well
If money is not the object for my business, then I would also feel comfortable asking for volunteers to help with various projects that I don’t have time to do.
Together we could end up serving better than I can alone.
For Me This Fits Well With A Spiritual Practice
When money is introduced, it gets a little confusing for me. There is an inherent conflict of interest that comes up for me. Would it be simpler without money?
Or am I dreaming?
Maybe I just need to continue to question my thoughts about money and keep charging as always. After all, that’s what the world does. Can the conflict of interest be resolved internally without changing the outer structure of things?
I’d like to hear your opinion on this idea. It’s just an idea. I didn’t say I was going to do it yet. Can you think of any reason why I shouldn’t do it? Would you be willing to donate if I did do it?
What if I tried it for a month? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Have a great weekend,
Todd
“Money is not your business; truth is your business. The story “I need more money” is what keeps you from realizing your wealth. Whenever you think that your needs are not being met, you’re telling the story of a future.” Byron Katie, A Thousand Names For Joy
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