We may think dealing with frustrating clients is just part of being creative. But frustration should be the exception rather than the rule. There are certainly times when you want to scream “You’re Fired!” at everyone you disagree with. But the truth is, you deserve the clients you get.

Bad clients aren’t the result of some cosmic force working against you, they’re more likely the result of your own actions. To do your best work and work with the best people, you need to be diligent in your relationship with your clients. Here’s how: