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At some point, every one of us becomes “the bad guy” — the person who says no, sets a line in the sand, or disappoints someone who wanted a little too much. And truthfully? That’s a good thing.
In this episode, Brett breaks down why being willing to let people down is essential if you want to keep your sanity, your focus, and your self-respect. Because saying yes to everything doesn’t make you a better leader, coach, or friend — it just makes you a doormat.
We’ve all seen how it happens: someone asks for a small favor here or there, and before you know it, your time, energy, and attention are getting siphoned off in a hundred directions that don’t serve your goals. This conversation is about drawing the line, protecting what actually matters, and remembering that you’re not supposed to serve everyone.
Sometimes, being the “bad guy” is what keeps you effective, grounded, and able to keep doing the work that actually helps people long-term.
Let’s be honest—most workshops leave you with a notebook full of tips and no real plan for change. Ours are built different.
At Art of Coaching, you won’t just sit and take notes. You’ll engage in real scenarios—role-plays, peer feedback, video breakdowns, and live evaluations—designed to help you sharpen your communication, think on your feet, and handle tough conversations with more clarity and control.
Whether you’re dealing with a passive-aggressive coworker, trying to be more assertive without burning bridges, stuck in tension at home, or just tired of second-guessing yourself socially or professionally—we can help.
This is potent personal and professional development that actually sticks. No fluff. No filler.
We offer multiple pricing tiers and discounts—reach out at [email protected] and we’ll help make it work for you.
Upcoming Workshops:
🔗 artofcoaching.com/events
Real Coaching for Real Life
Let’s be honest—everyone says they want growth, but putting in the work? That’s where most people just stick to what’s comfortable..
That’s why we created a mentoring service built for the real world. Whether you’re stuck on a professional decision, starting a business, writing a book, dealing with pressure at home, or just trying to get out of your own way—we can help.
This isn’t therapy. And it’s not a rah-rah, feel-good session either. It’s direct, tailored coaching from people who’ve been in the trenches—leaders, operators, educators, business owners. Our team of 15 comes from a wide range of backgrounds, so you’re matched with someone who understands your world and knows how to push you forward.
Everyone needs a coach.
🔗 artofcoaching.com/mentoring
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
X: @coach_brettb
By Brett Bartholomew4.9
612612 ratings
At some point, every one of us becomes “the bad guy” — the person who says no, sets a line in the sand, or disappoints someone who wanted a little too much. And truthfully? That’s a good thing.
In this episode, Brett breaks down why being willing to let people down is essential if you want to keep your sanity, your focus, and your self-respect. Because saying yes to everything doesn’t make you a better leader, coach, or friend — it just makes you a doormat.
We’ve all seen how it happens: someone asks for a small favor here or there, and before you know it, your time, energy, and attention are getting siphoned off in a hundred directions that don’t serve your goals. This conversation is about drawing the line, protecting what actually matters, and remembering that you’re not supposed to serve everyone.
Sometimes, being the “bad guy” is what keeps you effective, grounded, and able to keep doing the work that actually helps people long-term.
Let’s be honest—most workshops leave you with a notebook full of tips and no real plan for change. Ours are built different.
At Art of Coaching, you won’t just sit and take notes. You’ll engage in real scenarios—role-plays, peer feedback, video breakdowns, and live evaluations—designed to help you sharpen your communication, think on your feet, and handle tough conversations with more clarity and control.
Whether you’re dealing with a passive-aggressive coworker, trying to be more assertive without burning bridges, stuck in tension at home, or just tired of second-guessing yourself socially or professionally—we can help.
This is potent personal and professional development that actually sticks. No fluff. No filler.
We offer multiple pricing tiers and discounts—reach out at [email protected] and we’ll help make it work for you.
Upcoming Workshops:
🔗 artofcoaching.com/events
Real Coaching for Real Life
Let’s be honest—everyone says they want growth, but putting in the work? That’s where most people just stick to what’s comfortable..
That’s why we created a mentoring service built for the real world. Whether you’re stuck on a professional decision, starting a business, writing a book, dealing with pressure at home, or just trying to get out of your own way—we can help.
This isn’t therapy. And it’s not a rah-rah, feel-good session either. It’s direct, tailored coaching from people who’ve been in the trenches—leaders, operators, educators, business owners. Our team of 15 comes from a wide range of backgrounds, so you’re matched with someone who understands your world and knows how to push you forward.
Everyone needs a coach.
🔗 artofcoaching.com/mentoring
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
X: @coach_brettb

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