HOW TO NEGOTIATE YOUR SALARY
Negotiating for a Better Salary
Money is one of the most emotionally charged topics in modern life—especially when it comes to asking for more of it. Salary negotiations can stir up feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, or even guilt. But from a wellness perspective, advocating for fair compensation is not just a financial decision—it’s an act of self-respect and energetic alignment.
When you’re paid what you’re worth, you’re more empowered to care for your mind, body, and spirit. You reduce financial stress, increase your sense of value, and create space for balance in your personal and professional life. Here’s how to approach salary negotiations with clarity, confidence, and wellness in mind.
Step 1: Start with Self-Reflection
Before entering any negotiation, check in with yourself:
What are your skills, strengths, and unique contributions?
What kind of lifestyle do you want your salary to support?
Are your current wages aligned with the energy and expertise you give?
This step isn’t just about strategy—it’s about alignment. When your inner knowing affirms your worth, that confidence naturally shows up in your words and body language.
Step 2: Research with Intention
Empower yourself with knowledge. Research typical salary ranges for your role, industry, and geographic location. Tools like Glassdoor, Payscale, or LinkedIn Salary Insights can offer benchmarks.
Consider not just your title, but the scope of your responsibilities, years of experience, and any specialized skills. Knowing the market range provides a grounded foundation to support your ask.
Step 3: Mindful Preparation
Salary discussions can be nerve-wracking, so take time to prepare:
Practice your pitch out loud.
Write down your top three value points (quantifiable achievements, certifications, leadership, etc.).
Visualize the conversation going well. Use grounding breathwork or a calming routine beforehand to settle your nervous system.
Approach the conversation with clarity, not confrontation. You’re not demanding—you’re engaging in a dialogue about fair value.
Step 4: Initiate the Conversation with Confidence and Calm
When the moment comes, speak clearly and respectfully:
Express gratitude for the opportunity.
Share your enthusiasm for your work or the company.
Present your request as part of a broader conversation about value and growth.
For example:
"Based on my contributions to [project/success], my industry research, and the increased responsibilities I’ve taken on, I’d like to revisit my compensation to better reflect the value I bring to the team."
Step 5: Stay Open and Grounded
Negotiation is a two-way conversation. Be open to feedback or counteroffers, and remember: no is not personal. It’s information. Stay grounded in your values and boundaries. If what you need isn’t possible now, ask for a roadmap: “What would need to happen for a compensation review in six months?”
Final Thoughts
Negotiating your salary is more than a numbers game—it’s a wellness practice in self-advocacy, balance, and boundaries. When you honor your worth, you create space to thrive—not just at work, but in your whole life.
Remember, your energy is valuable. Your time is valuable. And you are worthy of compensation that reflects both.