Why Money Myths Hurt Changemakers and Social Entrepreneurs
Money is one of the most uncomfortable (and misunderstood) topics in the world of changemaking. Many of us entered this space driven by purpose, not profit, and along the way we absorbed powerful narratives about what it means to care.
We learned, often implicitly, that wanting financial security might dilute our integrity, that impact and income exist in tension, and that sacrifice is simply part of the deal. But these beliefs come at a cost. They shape how we value ourselves, how our organisations grow, and ultimately how much impact we can sustain over time.
In this article, I explore three persistent myths about money and changemaking and the realities that can unlock a more sustainable and impactful future.
Myth 1 — “You Don’t Do This for the Money”
This phrase is almost a badge of honour in the impact world. We say it proudly, as if it proves the purity of our purpose. And if we don’t say it ourselves, someone else will say it to us—often with the unspoken judgement that we should not be well paid.
But here’s the problem: it reinforces a damaging stereotype, that money and impact cannot coexist. That if you care about people or the planet, you shouldn’t care about financial security.
Changemakers can be their own worst enemy when it comes to self-worth. We play into the stereotype that helping others and earning money must be at odds. Recognizing your worth is essential and making money does not diminish social impact, it strengthens it.
When we, changemakers, undervalue ourselves, we perpetuate the idea that purpose-driven work is charity, not enterprise. This mindset:
- Undermines our self-worth.
- Keeps salaries low and talent scarce.
- Signals to society that impact work is less valuable than profit-driven work.
And here’s the irony: the same people who say “I don’t do this for the money” often struggle with burnout, financial stress, and lack of long-term security. Passion alone cannot pay the bills or fund innovation.
If we want to change the world, we need changemakers who are not only passionate but financially secure. That’s how we build movements that last.
Myth 2 — “It’s Not a Real Job”
Boom! There’s the myth and one of the most frustrating ones about charity or social entrepreneurship, that it’s not a “real job.” It’s often seen as altruism, a noble hobby, something we do out of the goodness of our hearts. This perception is deeply ingrained in society and even within our own sector.
But let’s be clear: social entrepreneurship is work. Hard work. It requires strategy, leadership, financial acumen, resilience, and innovation often under conditions far more complex than those faced in the private sector.
Changing this perception is about sustainability. If social entrepreneurship continues to be undervalued, we will struggle to attract talent, retain leaders, and scale solutions.
Recognizing it as a real job, with fair pay and potential for wealth creation (the majority of which stays within the community), signals that impact work is not a sacrifice. It’s a career. A powerful, respected, and viable career.
Myth 3 — The False Trade‑Off Between Purpose and Prosperity
We need to move away from two opposing paradigms—you’re making money or you’re doing good—to one: more money means more good. The focus is on the “more good,” but the “more money” is a central precondition.
How about making money while doing what you love and making the world a better place? That’s sustainability.
Sebastian’s Coffee Cup Coaching Corner
Grab a coffee. Take 10 minutes. Reflect with these five prompts:
- Where do I still believe that doing good requires personal or organisational suffering?
- How much money is “enough” for me and how will I know when I’ve reached it?
- What financial conversations am I avoiding and why?
- What would change if I led from abundance rather than fear?
- How do I want money to support my impact, my wellbeing, and my freedom?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share in the comments, on LinkedIn, or message me directly. Let’s stay connected.
With solidarity and hope,
Sebastian
P.S. If you enjoyed this post, explore the Build a Social Enterprise Blog for more insights and stories, and join my free newsletter on LinkedIn.
@sebastianrocca @buildasocialenterprise
