Three clients. Three weeks. Thirty years of loyalty – and I’m not scrambled.

The last three weeks have tested me more than the last three years.

In an unusual run of events, I lost three separate clients – one per week for three weeks in a row. I’d been the copywriter and voice for each of them for 10 years. That’s 30 combined years of history, trust, and shared work gone in just 21 days.

One client had to close their doors. Others saw sudden changes in direction. After a decade of writing for these clients, losing them so abruptly feels like a bereavement. I’ll admit it’s been a shock to the system.

Over the Easter bank holiday weekend, I was reminded of the old saying: don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Yet, I’m still standing, and definitely not scrambled. Here’s what 30 years of loyalty have taught me about resilience.

Loyalty isn’t a shield

You can give your work 100% for a decade, but you can’t stop a client’s business failing or their strategy abruptly shifting. I’ve learned that while I’ll always be a loyal partner, no client relationship is ever guaranteed. It’s a hard lesson to be a dedicated steward for a decade and still have the door close so suddenly.

I’m glad I have other baskets

I’ve always, always tried not to put all my eggs in one basket. And that’s the only reason this month didn’t end my business. I’m incredibly lucky that I have others – including my role as Director of Storytelling for Climate Action North.

Real resilience isn't about ‘luck’ or being ‘tough’. It’s about making sure you’re not reliant on one giant egg. It’s turned a potential disaster into a painful, but manageable, pivot.

Lean on your network

When the ground shifts, you find out who your real friends are. My family and friends are a constant, and I’m so grateful for the business friends who have reached out to check on me. I’ve also contacted a few and thank you to those who responded.

These human connections mean everything.

Walk away with your head high

When a 10-year relationship ends abruptly, it’s tempting to bargain or ask why. But my reputation is worth more than that. A decade of work deserves a proper ending. My expertise is still here; it’s just looking for a new home.

What’s next?

I’m proud of this track record. I believe very few copywriters keep a client’s trust for that long, and I’m thankful for every year of it.

I specialise in turning complex ideas into clear, human stories. I’m now looking for conversations with organisations that value consistency, long-term thinking, and a strong, human voice.

If that sounds like you (or someone you know), let’s talk.