You're probably thinking,
“I have nothing to sell—but I'm going to read this anyway,”
And you should—because this isn’t just advice. It’s my mantra: NO MORE DISCOUNTS.
A Personal Turning Point
Some years ago, I found myself at a crossroads—back in school and dating a guy four years younger. He must have thought we were college kids messing around. But to me? I was a grown woman rebuilding her life.
After two dates, he realized our lives were worlds apart: I had a full-time job and more life experience. When he learned my age, his perspective shifted. We moved in together months later. He worked hard for me, all while keeping up with school and a part-time job. His parents even supported him so he could focus on us. When I met his mom that fall, she said, “I knew my son was dating a real woman—he felt the need to get a job.” I laughed nervously, but inside I knew: he wanted me, saw my standards, and went to work to prove he could meet them.
This experience taught me a lifelong lesson: NO MORE DISCOUNTS—I don’t settle. Whether in love or career, when you lower your price—your standards—you always lose.
No Discounts in the Workplace
I've faced it professionally, too. Love a job but the salary isn't right? I’ve learned to walk away, even from positions many call “good.” Because they aren’t good enough for me. When I accept less than I deserve, I get exactly that: less.
Why Brands Don’t Discount—and You Shouldn’t Either
Think about luxury brands—some never go on sale, and people still buy them. They preserve value by holding firm on cost, prestige, and worth. If you want in, you pay the price. As individuals, we're no different. If you value what you bring—your time, your talent, your worth—you set a high price and you stick to it.
“What If Someone Meets My Standards?”
A friend once asked, “Shandra, what if someone really can meet your standards?”
My answer: Don’t compromise—but don’t be mean about it. Be kind, be patient, and hold your boundaries firm.
If your rule is three planned dates before intimacy, don’t break it.
If you don’t date people without stable income, keep that line.
That’s not rude—it’s self-respect. Emotional and psychological standards are self-care. Accepting anything less is a betrayal to yourself.
Your Standards = Your Price
Maybe you’re not a big company yet. You’re working, growing, and getting better each day—and you are a big deal. Whether it’s time, talent, or services—whatever price you set must be honored. No more freebies, IOUs, or empty promises.
Say no, even if it feels lonely. Those who respect your standards will stay. Those who can meet them will find a way.
🗒️ If you don’t have standards yet, write them down. Start with your boundaries in work and relationships. Decide what deserves your yes—and what doesn’t. I still apologize to myself for past compromises. I won’t go there again.
NO MORE DISCOUNTS
This is my note to myself—and a call to you:
Define your price.
Stick to your standards.
Respect yourself enough to say no.
Watch greatness come in because you refused to settle.
If this resonates, write it down. Set a reminder. Because you—your time and your worth—deserve nothing less. 🖤
