06/07/2026
The past 10 days have been some of the most emotionally draining I've experienced in my business.
I've always done my best to be extra accommodating—to shuffle my diary, work long hours, offer discounts where I can, and go the extra mile to help people when they're in a difficult position.
Unfortunately, this past week has been a sad reminder that no matter how much you try to help, you simply can't please everyone.
I lost a significant client this week after doing everything I could to assist during a challenging situation out of their control.
In trying to help, it also mildly impacted another client who was quick to drop me and very nearly damaged a relationship I've worked incredibly hard to build with a KZN yard owner. That's been heartbreaking.
What has hurt the most isn't losing business—it's the way I've been spoken to.
The poor communication, last-minute changes with late communication, delays, incorrect information, unrealistic expectations, the blame, the insults, and the complete lack of understanding have left me emotionally exhausted.
I'm expected to be organised, flexible, supportive, and accommodating. But I can't work miracles without communication, planning, and mutual respect.
This experience has taught me an important lesson: I need to set better boundaries.
Going forward, I'll be sticking to my schedule, there will be no more last-minute diary reshuffling, no more discounts simply to make things work, and no more running myself into the ground trying to accommodate everyone else's lack of planning. Owners are responsible for organising their bookings in advance, and while I'll always do my best within reason, I can no longer sacrifice my own wellbeing to make the impossible happen.
This week very nearly saw me hang up my clippers, needles, and thread for good. It's a place I never imagined I'd find myself, and I'm incredibly grateful to my family for picking me up when I felt completely defeated. Your encouragement reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.
To the clients who showed kindness, patience, understanding, and simply said "thank you"—you have no idea how much that meant. Your support is appreciated more than words can express.