16 Comments

I really admire your integrity : the choice of switching your paid publication to a completely free one is unconventional and speaks volumes about your values and your commitment to writing! I am so glad to have found Seasonal Living and be part of this community ! Thank you Victoria.

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Thank you Laura, that’s very kind of you to say. And I’m very happy you’re a part of this community! 🌿

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I’m sorry it’s been such a nightmare for you and it seems unfair you can’t be remunerated for your efforts but I’m so glad you will continue writing. I hope Substack finds a way to lend support to writers with this (surely other similar platforms have the same issues - Etsy?) but I’m really looking forward to everything you have in store for us. ❤️

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Thanks Victoria! And thanks also for being such a loyal member of the seasonal living community right from the start. I appreciate it 🩷

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Thank you for sharing this. I worked freelance for a year and it was a nightmare taxwise. I have the feeling that people on the internet makes it look very easy but it's not, at least in my country (IT)

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Yes absolutely, I think it's definitely something that needs to be better understood! I can manage an end of year tax return, but VAT is a step too far for me, although I know others can manage it. I have a low tolerance for anything complex regarding income! 🌞

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Yes, I can totally understand. It also has a cost because you need to hire and accountant on a regular basis and in any case you are always anxious of making mistakes!

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Sorry you've had such a nightmare with this and sad that you've had to make the decision to turn off paid, but it sounds like the right decision for you. First and foremost, it's about the writing isn't it. Pleased you are back, and I look forward to your Winter Solstice retreat 😊🙏

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Thanks Debbie! That’s very kind. And yes I’m looking forward to just getting back to the writing 🌞

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So annoying, this VAT stuff, I'm sorry to hear! A brave decision. And of course I will stay with you, I love your seasonal writings ❤🍁🍂

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Thank you Hilda! I’m very happy to hear that 🌝

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Hello Victoria! Thank you for your brave decision, and sharing of reasons, and for bringing the (yawn but necessary) subject of taxes up. I've been on Substack (very much on and off) for 2.5 years, and *never* kept a paid option on, this being one of the reasons.

We are all grateful you are staying!

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Thanks Luisa! That’s really interesting. I feel like selling memberships is the accepted path on here but it just might not the right choice for many of us, with all its complicated implications. Liberating to realise that! 🌞

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✨🙏

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It's such a shame that there are these blocks for us 😔 but I think the decision you have made is a generous and kind one, both to yourself and your readers and I'm certain your feeling of freedom will remain, as you continue to run this wonderful space 🙏🥰

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That's very kind, thanks Emily! And you're right about the feeling of freedom... can't be undervalued! 🌞

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