284. The One Project I Should've walked away from

We all have that one client project we should’ve walked away from. This is the story of mine—and the powerful (and expensive) lesson it taught me.

In this episode, I open up about one of the most challenging experiences in my interior design business: taking on a project that looked ideal on the surface but was packed with red flags I chose to ignore. From clashing personalities and unrealistic expectations to late-night stress and burned-out team members, this project took a toll—financially, emotionally, and mentally.

Inside the episode:

• What early red flags to look for in potential clients

• Why even a full payment upfront isn’t always a green flag

• How ignoring your gut can cost you more than just money

• How to use your intake process to filter for your ideal client

• Why saying “no” is a skill every designer needs to build

• What green flags to watch for so you love the clients you take on

Whether you’re an emerging designer or scaling your firm, this episode will help you identify who’s truly the right fit for your services—and how to protect your business, your time, and your energy.

Join the Stand Out Designer Bootcamp → rebeccahay.com/bootcamp

Download our Free Resources

➡️ Pre-qualify your clients with my Discovery Call Script

➡️ Stay confident from beginning to end with my Consultation Checklist   

➡️ Looking for a quick infusion of cash? Grab my 4 easy ways of increasing your revenue

Looking to elevate your business? Learn more about our courses

➡️ Want the complete blueprint to calculate your design fee with confidence and ease? Learn more about my Pricing with Confidence course

➡️ Want to be the first to know when Power of Process is returning? Click to learn more about the business blueprint for interior design firm owners.

➡️Want to be the first to know when the next episode drops? Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the Resilient by Design Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!