By saying "yes, but" you are essentially arguing with fate, destiny and anything else you want to add. When you are in the mindset of "Yes, but I don't have enough" you are just reinforcing not having enough. I know this from a deep soul level, and I suspect it is one of the lessons I am on the earth at this time to learn. I have always known about self-fulfilling prophecies, yet sometimes I still manifest what I don't want. It's a constant struggle against fear, especially in these challenging times.
Around the metaphysical community, many workshops are given and payment is expected in the form of a "love offering." There is a bit of confusion here because it almost feels like a demand when the "suggested love offering is $25" for example. On the other hand, when no amount is suggested, people are also confused and then it becomes a bit of peer pressure to leave what everyone else leaves out of a sense of obligation rather than gratitude. There are also those who feel charitable and donate accordingly out of a desire to support the presenter's good work which is wonderful as well.
I am confused by people who don't understand the concept of fair exchange for services. When someone does something for someone else, there needs to be an energy exchange. If I accept a service from someone that is "free," I still understand that it is a gift of their time, knowledge and expertise, whether they are charging for their service or not. When I leave a tip, a donation or small gift or token of some kind, it is in direct proportion to my gratitude for what I received from the person <the exact amount depends upon my current financial situation>. When I listen to my heart, it is a way of joyfully saying "thank you for your time."
If I choose to trade my services with those of another, that is a choice freely made -- whether the services are "equal" or not. By the same token, if I do something for someone I love, it is not with the expectation of getting something in return <except hopefully love and appreciation>. It is because I value them and am happy to have them in my life. Currently I find myself in the position of having given away my knowledge and services for so long for free, and I need to make changes in that perception. I have spent a lifetime of being an information gatherer and dispenser of wisdom, and I need to value that knowledge myself before I can expect others to do so. I guess that means that from now on, I will conduct my healing practice and workshops on a more fiscally sound basis in order to value my time and be fair to myself.