Hey y’all, welcome back to the Designed for the Creative Mind Podcast! I’m so glad you're here. We’re kicking off a brand new season: Rookie Mistakes and Real Talk — where I’m mixing up business blunders and behind-the-scenes truths from running an interior design firm.

Today’s episode is for every designer who’s ever said “yes” when they really wanted to scream “oh hell no” — and then paid the price for it. We're diving into the sneaky ways people pleasing shows up in client relationships, why it’s so damaging to your business, and how to set boundaries like the confident CEO you are (even if you feel a little nasally like I do — thanks, Texas allergies!).

What we cover in this episode:

What people pleasing actually looks like in an interior design business

How saying "yes" all the time leads to scope creep, burnout, and resentment

Why being liked is not the same as being trusted — and why trust matters more

Real talk about the mindset shift from being "kind" to being a true leader

A story about my client Claire, who broke the people-pleasing cycle (and how you can too)

Practical examples of how to set confident, kind boundaries without feeling pushy

Why you are a business, not a bestie (and why that’s a GOOD thing!)

Big takeaway:
Running your business with clear leadership and boundaries doesn’t make you mean — it makes you trustworthy. Your clients want you to lead them. If you’re bending over backwards for approval, it’s time to rethink it. Being liked isn’t nearly as valuable as being trusted.

If this episode hit home for you:
Take a screenshot and share the one boundary you're going to practice this week! Tag me on Instagram at @designedforthecreativemind or come share in our Facebook group, The Interior Designers' Business Launchpad. I would love to cheer you on!

And if you loved what you heard, don’t keep it to yourself — send this episode to a fellow designer who could use a little nudge, and leave a review wherever you’re listening. Your reviews seriously help this show grow, and I appreciate every single one.

Coming up next week:
We’re tackling why shopping retail could be wrecking your profits and how to explain trade pricing without sounding defensive. You definitely don't want to miss it.

Remember:

Success doesn’t happen by chance — it happens by design.
Keep designing your business with intention. And if you ever need a hand, I’ve got you.

Podcast Website and Resources:

Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery  

Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.

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Stay in touch with Michelle

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A Podcast Launch Bestie production