16/09/2025
The other day I had a customer who has been buying from me for a while and even refers people too. I truly value her and because of that I have given her some things for free in the past. I even offered her free deliveries just to make her feel appreciated.
But during our last conversation, she said something that left me speechless. She looked at me and said, “With all the people I’ve brought to you, I deserve this fabric for free.”
At first I smiled because I thought she was joking, but she wasn’t. She said it with full seriousness and pride. That was when it struck me that there’s a thin line between being appreciated and being entitled.
As business owners we love to show gratitude. We dash, we give discounts, we do free deliveries, we go the extra mile when we can. But it has to come from the heart. It should never be demanded. When a customer asks politely, it is always easier to give. But when it comes with ego, it takes away the joy completely.
Business is about mutual respect. The seller gives value, the buyer gives support. That balance is what keeps everything sweet.
To all my customers who support with a clean heart and allow me to appreciate them in my own way, thank you. You are the reason I keep doing what I do. But let’s be clear, respect in business is priceless. When it’s there, both sides win. When it’s missing, no amount of money can replace it.
