This week’s question from my portal “The Neagle Code: Directions for Life” comes from someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
Hi David,
I’m a CPA. And in the past, I’ve had clients with a lot of financial anxiety that they ended up taking out on me. But I’m trying to avoid this now because I would like to reduce the amount of stress in my life and not be affected by these things. How do I do it?
It’s not easy doing business with people who often fall into victim mode and blame others for things that happen.
The good news is there are a few ways to deal with this.
But personally, I wouldn’t even work with people who don’t take responsibility for their own circumstances; because if someone doesn’t see me working with them as a benefit, I wouldn’t even try to build a relationship with them.
The logical thing to do here would be to change the group of people that you’re working with and selling to.
If you try to change someone, chances are that you won’t succeed.
We simply can’t make other people change.
Now, I get that you may not be in a position where you can just switch out your clients. A lot of people are scared and anxious these days, especially with the whole COVID situation.
With this scenario in mind, the best thing that you can do is change YOUR mindset.
How?
By coming from a place of compassion.
The best way to keep your sanity is to not take it personally when other people’s anxiety lashes out.
Understand that it has nothing to do with you, even though it’s directed at you. Some people just don’t have healthy coping mechanisms, and that’s neither your fault nor responsibility.
Finally, you can (and should) try to ensure that this behavior doesn’t get directed towards you. And the most effective way to do it is to set boundaries.
So, tell your clients that their behavior is unacceptable and that you won’t tolerate it.
Remember that you’re not the cause of your client’s problems. And you’re under no obligation to solve them or suffer for them.
You can either move on or set healthy boundaries to keep your peace intact.
P.S. Whenever you’re ready… here are 3 ways I can help you grow YOUR business:
- Listen to The Successful Mind Podcast. Three times per week I drop cutting edge information and strategies relating to success mindset, leadership, wealth creation and relationships.
- Join other like-minded small business owners in my Transformation Facebook Group! Allow us to be a place to share ideas, get advice and meet others who value truth and growth!
- Join me at The Art of Success Virtual Summit! In April 2021 I’m getting a group of amazing business owners for 3 days to work on exponentially growing their business.
