Research in the field of psychology has examined the relationship between guilt and charging for services. One study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who reported feeling guilty about charging for their services were more likely to underprice their services compared to those who did not feel guilty.

Another study published in the Journal of Economic Psychology found that people’s feelings of guilt and shame about charging for their services were influenced by their beliefs about the fairness of their pricing. Specifically, participants who believed that their prices were fair and reasonable reported lower levels of guilt and shame compared to those who believed their prices were too high or too low.

Other research has shown that the relationship between guilt and charging for services can be influenced by cultural norms and expectations. For example, in some cultures, it may be seen as inappropriate or greedy to charge for certain types of services, which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame for those who do charge.

Overall, research suggests that feelings of guilt and shame about charging for services can influence pricing decisions and may be influenced by beliefs about the fairness of pricing and cultural norms. It’s important for individuals who experience these feelings to recognize their value and worth as service providers and to set fair prices that reflect the value they provide to their clients.

So yes, feeling guilty about charging for your services is a common issue for many people, especially those who are new to entrepreneurship or working in the helping professions. However, it’s important to recognize that charging for your services is necessary to sustain your business and life and continue providing value to your clients. Here are some strategies that can help you overcome guilt about charging for your services:

Recognize the value of your services: Remind yourself of the value you provide to your clients and the positive impact you have on their lives. Recognize that your services are worth paying for and that you are providing a valuable service to others.

• Practice self-compassion: Be kind and compassionate to yourself when you experience feelings of guilt or shame about charging for your services. Recognize that these feelings are common and that they do not reflect your worth as a person.
  
• Reframe your thinking: Instead of thinking about charging for your services as taking money from people, think about it as exchanging value. Your clients are paying for the value and expertise you provide, and you are receiving payment for your time and effort.
  
• Set fair prices: Determine a fair price for your services based on your level of expertise, the value you provide, and the costs associated with providing your services. Setting fair prices can help you feel more confident about charging for your services.
  
• Practice boundary-setting: Set clear boundaries around your time and expertise, and communicate these boundaries to your clients. This can help you feel more in control of your business and reduce feelings of guilt or overwhelm.
  
• Seek support: Connect with other entrepreneurs or professionals in your field who can offer support and guidance. Talking to others who have gone through similar experiences can help you feel less alone and more confident about charging for your services.

Remember that feeling guilty about charging for your services is common, but it’s important to recognize the value you provide to your clients and to set fair prices that reflect this value. With time and practice, you can overcome these feelings of guilt and feel more confident about charging for your services.

In our Shinrin Yoku Guide Training we encourage you to live a meaningful life through your business.