[lfender6445]

for me, its the realization that if i don't get what I want, i risk feeling disheartened about my job in the future - especially if its a job i enjoy.

there is a risk/reward benefit that one enters by asking for a raise, where if all things were to stay the same, I could walk away relatively unscathed.

this could change depending on whether or not you were asking for a raise because you feel you deserve it, financial necessity, or both.