Appreciation post: My old boss's cheapness taught me to charge fair rates. | First Gig Pricing - Freelance Forum - The Community for Independent Professionals
Set your rates based on what you need to make, not what someone wants to pay. Getting everything in writing stops those late night emails about unexpected discounts. Losing a cheap client is actually a win for your calendar. That kind of boss shows you exactly how not to run your own business.
My cousin lost a big project because she didn't have a contract. She set her price too low just to get the job. Now she charges what she needs to live, not what clients wish to pay. Letting go of those who complain about price frees up time for better work. I had a boss who always cut corners, and it showed me what not to do. So yeah, sticking to your rates and paperwork saves so much headache.