Yeah. I said breakup.
That’s what we’re talking about this week on the Freelance Fitness podcast—breaking up with a client. Because as uncomfortable as it may be, sometimes it’s necessary.
All relationships—yes, even business ones—are built on trust, respect, and a sense of mutual benefit. You have to feel like you’re getting what you need from the exchange. And so does your client. But what happens when that balance starts to slip?
Communication breaks down.
Contracts aren’t respected.
Payments are late…or missing altogether.
You feel stuck, held back from better opportunities.
It’s hard to let go, especially when you’re worried about reducing your income. But here’s the truth: trimming your client list isn’t always a loss. In fact, it might be the very thing that opens the door to more fulfilling, better-paying, or simply more respectful work.
How do you know it’s time to move on?
Here are some red flags:
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Low rates, high expectations. Especially if the scope creeps (leaps!?!) beyond the initial agreement.
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Late or missing payments. If you’ve had to send the same firm-but-polite reminder email three times, months apart, you’re not being respected.
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Boundary issues. Clients who text at night, call at odd hours, or ignore your preferred channels of communication.
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Poor communication. They’re impossible to reach when you need approvals, but want you to make the deadline regardless.
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Personality clashes. If every email from them makes your stomach drop, that’s your body telling you something.
So how do you break up, respectfully?
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Start by reframing the situation: you’re not “giving up.” You’re choosing to focus your time and energy on clients and projects that align with your goals.
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Be polite but firm. Thank them for their collaboration. Let them know you’re shifting your business priorities and their work no longer falls within your scope.
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Always give notice. Wrap up your final deliverables properly. Even if the working relationship was difficult, leave on a professional note.
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Resist the urge to rant publicly. No naming and shaming. Save the story (with names changed!) for trusted friends or a private dinner party. It’s a small world out there.
A gentle reminder
You are allowed to let go of clients who drain your time, your creativity, or your peace of mind. You’re not being petty. You’re protecting your energy and your business. That’s not failure. That’s growth.
You deserve to work with people who treat you with the same level of respect and professionalism you offer them.
You deserve to enjoy your work again.
You deserve wonderful things.
🎧 Tune into this week’s episode of Freelance Fitness for the full conversation, paired with a mobility workout to help you literally open up space in your body as you clear space in your business.
Special thanks to the brilliant Dervla Trainor for the inspiration behind this topic. Subscribe to her newsletter—you won’t regret it.
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