Is teaching really a vocation? Why do I feel guilty that I asked for a raise?

Question

I am giving private tutorials at home and my friends are telling me that I am charging too little, considering the time I am putting in it and the high quality of my lessons (and my academic background). I decided to follow their advice, informed my students, and raised my fee.

But now I feel extremely guilty and unhappy. It just doesn't feel right. Not that my students are poor (because they can afford it). But because I feel that I am becoming greedy.

I can't take my word either. I don't want people to start taking me for granted because I can't seem to make up my mind. What should I do? Believe me, I am not earning that much. But for some reason, I feel so guilty asking for a raise.

Answer 1

Yes, teaching really is a vocation! Your time is valuable as is your education. You gave notice, people are still willing to pay, so tutor and enjoy it. Your clients will let you know if you are charging too much. Contact a local university and find out what their tutorial rates are and compare yours to theirs. It may help you alleviate your self-imposed guilt to get a comparison.
Take a breath, smile, and go for it!

Answer 2

If you mean you feel guilty because you think teaching really isn't a vocation like being a doctor or a lawyer, ask yourself why you think that way. It could be that our society looks down on teachers. In other countries, teachers are highly respected. If you really want to see if teaching is challenging, try something else and compare the two. Which required the most skill and inborn talent?

Answer 3

You are being too emotional. focus on the fact that it is a business arrangement and any business can only succeed if it is meeting it's expenses plus a little more.

Answer 4

If your customers are willing to pay your new rate, then they feel that you are worth it.

You gave them notice, and allowed them to decide whether to continue with you. I wouldn't feel guilty.