There has been plenty written about getting into this industry, though we are all different in our many shapes and forms, it is the one common denominator that brings us together – the choice to enter an unconventional and often scorned industry.

The first thing you inevitably ask when searching for a way in is how much money can you make. The scary thing is that there is no definitive answer on this and you will spend hours doing research, trying to justify why you should or should not, fighting that voice inside that says there are a million other things that can be done to pay the bills, survive or elevate your current lifestyle.

For many of us, the first steps have often not been the online world. For me, it was sensual massages with happy endings. I had just begun the process of a divorce after finding out my partner had cheated on me, destroying my self-confidence in the process, and was now faced with the terrifying task of not living a dual income life anymore. My stresses were compounded by the fact I had also just changed jobs and moved to a new house.

It was all too much and when the first paycheck arrived, minus every hope and dream, as well as the promise of a better life, I in a moment of true Hannah glory, quit my job. I sat on the sofa staring at the ad in the paper for days, knowing what I had to do but fighting for another day before I did it. Eventually, my bank balance and kitchen cabinets forced me to pick the phone up.

A week later after more contemplation/procrastination I slapped some clothes on and went for an interview, not bothering to do myself up, maybe it was the last of the fight not to take this step as if they had declined me I would have another excuse not to get myself going. Yes, I was angry; at men, at the world and at myself I had not seen any of this till it was too late.

As luck would have it, I did get the job and the next day began training. Within a couple of weeks I was a top earner and suddenly money was no worry whatsoever. I still had the doubts, but it felt amazing to go into a room, know exactly why the client was there, as well as why I was there. It was a transaction but that didn’t mean it couldn’t be fun, interesting, and enlightening.

Over the months I slowly began to feel myself again. In fact, scrap that. I felt like a goddess, someone who was worthy of being desired but could stand on my own feet again and succeed. I didn’t need a man to do it. I was worthy. That said, the healing did not stop there. I was able to realize through connecting on an emotional and physical level with other men that they were not all my ex and thus did not deserve to be painted with the same brush.

I thank the universe daily for that call, the ad, and whatever drove me to that specific venue. You see they had standards and were concerned for the wellbeing of the ladies that worked there.

Eventually, I would leave and move on, but that place healed me. It brought friendships, intimacy, and companionship in the strangest of ways.

So why am I back in the industry? 

Well, things have a funny way of turning out. Since leaving I have had the desire for that attention, for a little lipstick money as it is referred to but mostly for the ability to connect again. I have always found this industry to be one where the honest people reside. Call it naïve, but I call it optimistic. I love connecting with people.

This is home. It is what I know and with the Internet we are suddenly all connected, forming our own community. Like all places, there will be the judgment but the beautiful thing about our little world is we are all in it, no matter the scorn of the outside world. 

That is what I come back for: the people.

Have a gorgeous and beautiful day, and remember that no matter your reasons you are not alone. No matter the bullies, you are loved. Reach out and I promise you will find that the people here are better than those outside these digital walls.

Hannah.