Rhythm of Self

A couple weeks ago the shit really hit the fan when a conflict between me and a long-time client (hereinafter referred to as Mr. Client) blew up, ultimately ending our 3 year business relationship. Needless to say, I was bummed. But, a few hours later I quite literally felt a physical weight lift from my shoulders…

Mr. Client, by definition, was a bad client and, admittedly, I found this out years ago… Mr. Client was not the kind of client that didn’t pay his invoices on time or didn’t keep me busy-because he did. Mr. Client was a scope creep monster, and a quite unfocused and unorganized one at that. It was so bad that literally, 10% of the 20 or 30 projects I worked on for him ever saw the light of day. This kept a constant pressure on our relationship (which spilled over to other personal/client relationships).

I would grudgingly accept Mr. Client’s projects, knowing very well the taxing task ahead of me. Why? I needed the work and I really looked up this guy (and still do). This went on for three years.

So, as rainbows and chirping birds began to dance with me in the sunlight, and the crazy stress that progressively accumulated over three years was washing away, I realized that relationship sapped so much energy from my life. It took up so much mental space and energy blocking me from many opportunities and possibilities that could have driven me closer to success.

Big lesson learned.

So, I ask you… What relationships in your life are tying up your energy? Where can this energy be better invested? I think it’s time to start assessing!