Hey Beautiful Humans! 👋

Can we talk about something that's been eating at the entire PRB team? How many of you are out here doing the work of THREE people but getting paid like you're barely handling one?

We see you. Grinding harder than everyone else, delivering results that make your boss look like a rockstar, and then sitting quietly in the corner hoping someone notices your brilliance.

Nah, sis. We're done with that energy.

This week, we're serving you the exact blueprint to walk into your boss's office and demand that 15% raise you've been dreaming about. Not asking. Not hoping. DEMANDING. Because your bank account deserves to match your impact. 💅

The Project Rich Bitch Team

The "Stop Playing Small" Edition
This week is all about breaking the cycle of undervaluing yourself and finally claiming the compensation you deserve. We're diving deep into the psychology of why we accept less, the strategic moves that get you more, and the confidence armor you need to walk into any room knowing your worth. Ready to stop leaving money on the table? Let's go.

Dana's getting real with y'all

Okay, story time because I need you to learn from my expensive mistake.

Picture this: Young Dana gets the promotion. New title, fancy business cards, and that "I'm moving up in the world" high. But when they slid that salary offer across the table? I said yes faster than I said yes to brunch plans.

Why? Because I was grateful. Because I didn't want to seem "difficult." Because the imposter syndrome was LOUD and I was scared they'd realize they made a mistake - which technically they did with my salary.

That "grateful" cost me $20,000. And here's the kicker - it wasn't just that year. That gap followed me for YEARS because every future salary was built on that undervalued foundation. I was so “grateful”, I stayed at this company, accepting what was.

They call it the "Loyalty Tax" - when companies promote you internally but pay you less than they'd pay someone walking in from the street. Basically, they're betting you'll accept less because you're already comfortable.

Plot twist: Comfort is expensive, and I refuse to pay that price again.

That financial betrayal of myself? It lit a fire that's still burning. It taught me that our wealth and our wellness are connected, and both start with knowing - and OWNING - our worth.

Alright, let's get you that money. But we're not walking in there with feelings and hopes - we're bringing FACTS and RECEIPTS.

Phase 1: Build Your Case Like a Boss Stop saying "I manage social media." Start saying "I increased engagement by 47% and drove $50K in new revenue through strategic content." See the difference?

Use the CAR method:

Do this for every major win. Your boss needs ammunition to fight for you upstairs.

Phase 2: Know Your Numbers Research what you're worth on the open market. Use Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary Insights, and industry reports. Know what your peers make internally too (yes, have those conversations).

Knowledge is literally power when it comes to these conversations. The more data you have, the stronger your position becomes.

Anchor high with that 15% but have backup plans. Maybe it's additional PTO, a better title, or flexible work arrangements.

Phase 3: Make It About the Future Don't frame this as a reward for past work. Frame it as an investment in what you'll deliver next. Show them the roadmap of how you'll grow in the role over the next 12-24 months.

Pro tip: Send a formal email first. It shows you're serious and gives them time to prepare instead of ambushing them.

Before you march into that office, we need to check your internal game. Because Financial Imposter Syndrome will sabotage you faster than you can say "I don't deserve this."

Quick audit - be honest:

Real talk: Your money mindset was shaped by years of programming. Recognize those limiting thoughts, but don't let them drive the car. You need data AND confidence - not just one or the other.

Speaking of confidence - incorporate some amazing wellness rituals that keep you grounded during high-stakes conversations. From Mela Vitamins for that extra mental clarity to Endorf mushroom supplements for stress management - taking care of your body helps you show up stronger mentally.

Real wealth preparation goes way beyond your bank account, babe. It's recognizing that your financial, mental, and physical well-being are all connected. Investing in yourself isn't selfish - it's strategic.

Let's talk about "enclothed cognition" - the science that proves what we've always known: when you feel good in what you're wearing, you show up differently.

But here's what we're NOT saying: You need to squeeze into some cookie-cutter "professional" uniform that makes you feel like you're playing dress-up in someone else's life.

Your Power Look is YOURS: Maybe your confidence comes from a killer midi dress and statement earrings. Maybe it's perfectly tailored trousers and a silk blouse. Maybe it's a sharp jumpsuit that makes you feel like you could run the world (because you could). The key isn't the specific pieces - it's how they make YOU feel.

The Strategic Investment: Whatever makes you feel unstoppable, invest in the BEST version of it. Your wardrobe is a business tool, but it should feel authentically you. A $200 dress that fits your body and your personality perfectly will always outperform a $2000 blazer that makes you feel like you're wearing a costume.

We've been loving SELFMade for empowering accessories that make a statement, and IvyEkong Fashion for those luxury pieces that command attention in the best way. When you invest in quality pieces that reflect your personality, it shows.

Read the Room, Then Own It: Know your environment. Corporate finance? Lean more conservative but add your signature touch. Creative agency? You might have more flexibility to express your style. The goal isn't to blend in - it's to show up as the most polished, confident version of yourself within the context.

The Fit Factor: This is where luxury meets strategy: Perfect fit is everything. Whether it's tailoring that blazer, hemming those pants, or finding a bra that actually fits - the details matter. When your clothes fit your body right, you carry yourself differently.

The Finishing Touches: Don't sleep on the details that make you feel put-together. A signature scent, perfectly manicured nails (Telle Moi has the most gorgeous nude shades for every skin tone), or a statement accessory from Scarves & Fedoras can be your confidence armor.

Remember: Your style should amplify your voice, not silence it. Dress like the woman who already has everything you're asking for. ⚡