Economic Realities

The age of email has changed communication in many ways, some for better and some for worse. One of these changes is that it can be much easier to deal with uncomfortable issues because of the impersonality of the technological medium. However this impersonality often influences decisionmaking in ways that may shortchange you. Here's an example: naturally, I get email requests for information about services, including rates. While I prefer to speak with people directly (and I mean by phone, in which we have a live conversation), I respond to these requests honestly, and of course there are many times when I never hear from the person again. There could be any number of reasons for this, but for those who are interested in contracting for any kind of one-on-one service during the economic downturn -- be it Yoga instruction, therapy, web site design, or anything else -- there are some things to keep in mind.

It is always best to discuss rates personally, since there may be occasions when fees can be negotiable. Often there is a connection between a practitioner and a potential client that can be felt even in a phone conversation. I've negotiated with people when I thought there was an especially good fit, with seniors on fixed, incomes, etc. I've also had people at first uncertain about this kind of expense later decide it was well worth it, as the benefits far outweighed the cost.

Hourly service rates are not just profit. My fees have to cover taxes, Social Security payments, and travel time -- an hour-long in-home session could actually end up being three hours of time for me. I'm not complaining -- this is my professional choice. But you're also paying for my experience, talent, and for that sense of connection that you can't find with just anyone.

If you're searching for a teacher, therapist or counselor, don't shortchange yourself by cutting off the investigation process too quickly. You're making an investment in your health, well-being and the quality of your life that could have huge payoffs later in saved medical expenses, higher productivity and greater peace of mind. Give yourself every chance to explore the best place to make that investment. If we find ourselves working together, we'll both be the better for it. If you find yourself better off with another teacher, we all still benefit. Now is the time to spend your money wisely, not by making no investments, but by making the best ones you can find.

Wishing you peace and prosperity -- om shanti.

Getting Back in Gear

Wow, it's been about 6 months since my last post. What's been going on since that time? Seemingly, not a whole lot. I'd say it's been a transitional time but when the transitional period seems more like an epoch unto itself, it's a little embarassing! Then again, I've always been one to take a long time to make changes. I use things up till they're absolutely gone -- soap, toothpaste, etc. -- before I buy a replacement; I hold onto relationships till it's beyond clear that they've outlived their shelf life.

My first epiphany about this came back in about 1990, on an Outward Bound course. There was a lot of profound experiential learning for me on that trip but the greatest came at the very end, during the ropes course. I sat perched on the edge of a very high platform willing myself to jump off and be carried across the zip cord, but I was paralyzed by fear. I was perfectly safe -- harnessed in securely, attached to strong ropes and solid equipment -- but none of this registered right then. For a while, the rest of the group was supportive, shouting encouragment and urging me on. Eventually, though, they lost interest and wanted to move on to lunch.

I knew I could give up but I also knew I'd never forgive myself if I did. I kept thinking that if I could just hold on tightly enough, I could let go! Paradoxical, yes, but this is the battleground of the rational mind. Eventually, something in my brain just switched over -- I loosened my grip on the rope and thought, "whatever happens, happens." As I slid off the edge of the platform I thought about death, that ultimate fear that keeps us bound. I dropped, I screamed, and, of course, I was supported. It was even -- fun!

The experience taught me much about holding back versus letting go and trusting - like Yoga, which teaches that ultimately we are not in control and to live in accordance with guidance we've got to learn to listen and trust that it's taking us where we need to go. This is a lesson I've had to experience over and over, and this period in my life is no exception. Soon, I hope, that switch in my brain will flip and I'll finally be free to move forward. I just hope lunch isn't over with.