Thrive by Design

15. When "Good Clients" Cost You More Than You Think


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Have you ever found yourself describing someone as a good client, while at the same time feeling a knot in your stomach when you think about the next invoice, the next request, or the next conversation you know you should probably have with them?


I want to start today with that question, because I think it’s one a lot of service entrepreneurs quietly avoid. And that question is this:

Are they actually a good client… or are you avoiding a hard decision?

  • (00:00) - We All Have Those “Good Clients”
  • (02:47) - Designing the Business You Want to Run
  • (05:33) - The “Good” Client Who Pays Late
  • (07:34) - Scope Creep and Avoided Conversations
  • (08:52) - Fear, Risk and the Illusion of Safety
  • (10:26) - Closing Thoughts

  • Takeaways
    • Clients who pay late consistently are not good clients.
    • Avoidance can lead to stress and cash flow pressure.
    • You have the power to choose how your business operates.
    • Courage is needed to have uncomfortable conversations.
    • Clear expectations build trust and reduce tension.
    • Scope creep can erode agreements and lead to resentment.
    • Avoiding difficult conversations can damage relationships.
    • Fear of losing income often leads to avoidance.
    • Clarity in business protects relationships and energy.
    • Recognizing what drains you is crucial for business health.

    Music from
    #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: J9DLLHCRCIXB9NSG

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    Thrive by DesignBy Karen Woller