[Nek_12]

This resonates. I do the same - use free tools, only pay when forced.

You nailed it: 'If people aren't upgrading, the free version might be enough.' That's exactly my problem. Level 177 user completes 800+ habits/month on free tier.

So I either:

1. Lock core features - risk losing the 9 power users 2. Keep it generous - accept it won't monetize 3. Shut down

Question: on your website, did you experiment with limiting free usage? Or accept it's a free tool with optional donations?

[nicbou]

My website is free by design; keeping it free has been my policy for years.[0] I ask for donations, but it was never a significant source of income. The website's birthday is a few days apart from mine, so I use the donations to get myself a really nice gift every year.

However, my business model is different. For software, you need to give people enough to fall in love with your product, but not enough to keep using it for years without paying.

[0] https://allaboutberlin.com/terms