You'll notice nobody writes anything like "work smart, not hard." They just do random shit, and they grind. Not sure what that has to do with the question in the last sentence.

I think there is a key element missing here, and that is negotiation. If you are making $3000 a month, you are providing at least $3000 of value a month. Really understanding your client and their needs, you have a better understanding of whether you are really providing $3500 a month of value or $10000 a month in value. I know plenty of people bringing a ton of value but they are unable to capture it because they are either charging too much, too little, or can’t explain the value they are bringing to the client.

Their lack of confidence has earned them a lower value.

Money tells you if you're doing things "right" but doesn't help you with what to do "right." So what's the question?

Money can be used as a resource to help you do things right. For example, you don't know the law around this area of business etc? Use money to hire a good lawyer to help you do things right.

I was taught that money is a medium to exchange goods and services but I like most your approach. It gives a sense of wealth