When Business Gets Hard: How to Turn a Client Loss into a Creative Comeback
We’ve all had those gut-punch moments in business — when a client leaves, a launch flops, or the money feels tight.
Yep, I’ve been there too (more than once).
But here’s the truth: the difference between businesses that keep growing and those that stall isn’t avoiding problems — it’s knowing how to move through them calmly and creatively.
In this episode of The Marketing Duo Podcast, Cinthia from Digital Bloom IQ and I talk honestly about what happens behind the scenes when business gets bumpy — and how we turn those moments into momentum.
When Things Don’t Go Your Way
You know that feeling — the “I can’t breathe” panic when a client cancels or revenue drops.
The first thing I do? Step away.
I’ll go outside, grab a cup of tea, and give myself permission to feel it.
Then, I start thinking like a CEO again.
You can’t problem-solve from panic.
Once you give your nervous system a break, your creativity comes back online — and that’s when the best ideas show up.
Reframe the “Problem”
Cinthia shared a perfect example: one of her agency services wasn’t profitable. Instead of ditching it, she looked closer and found a tool that automated most of the manual work.
That “problem” turned into a better, more profitable service.
When things go sideways, ask yourself:
➡️ What’s the real issue here?
➡️ Is there a faster, easier, or smarter way to handle it?
➡️ Could this roadblock actually reveal an opportunity?
Sometimes the fix is already waiting for you — it just needed a shake-up to show itself.
Work Closest to the Dollar
When business slows down, I focus on what I can control.
Here’s my go-to plan:
- Cut unnecessary expenses. Do you really need that subscription or nice-to-have app? Simplify first.
- Reopen proven offers. For me, that means launching family mini-sessions or offering a limited-time promo on my go-to service.
- Follow up. I reach out to warm leads who said “not yet.” A friendly check-in can quickly turn into new bookings.
Those three moves instantly make me feel more grounded and back in charge.
Are You Overwhelmed By Social Media
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Marketing Momentum Starts Small
You don’t need a major launch to recover. One new blog post, a fresh Reel, or a podcast pitch can open new doors.
Even the tiniest action builds momentum.
And remember — discomfort often leads to innovation. When things get uncomfortable, that’s where creativity starts to bloom.
The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything
Losing clients doesn’t mean you failed. It means you’re being invited to grow, adjust, and realign.
Sometimes, the business that comes after a loss is better than what came before.
So take a breath.
Look at your numbers.
Send that follow-up email.
And keep moving forward with confidence — you’ve got this.
Don’t forget to Pin it for later — because tough moments in business are easier when you’ve got a calm comeback plan waiting for you.
