Whether you're a coach or a copywriter, an accountant or an architect, there will always be that one icky client who puts your patience to the test. You've signed the papers, but with each day that passes, you dread working with this person more and more. Should you grit your teeth and suffer through, or just end it early, like a bad blind date? Here are five good reasons to say goodbye.

1. You've done nothing wrong.

Let me guess: the thought of ending that bad client relationship makes you feel like you failed in some way. Who told you to feel that? Your high school counselor? Your mom who stayed in an unhappy marriage? Just because your style and skillset doesn't jive with another person's M.O. doesn't mean that you're non compus mentus. Not bad, not wrong... just different!

2. Most contracts contain a loophole.

Yes, although it would seem contradictory to something as binding as a contract, most of them contain some contextual wiggle room that allows you to wiggle right out of the deal. If you find the escape hatch in paragraph four, take your cue and get the heck out of there.

3. A poorly matched partnership can hamper productivity.

Forget about who's right and who's wrong in this scenario. Instead, focus on output. If you're not faster and more productive when collaborating with this client, time is being wasted on both sides. Assuming you've tried various methods of working together but every solution comes up short, just call a spade a spade and turn the page.

4. A better opportunity has made itself known.

Of course, stick-to-itiveness is an admirable trait, and we should try our best to commit to our promises. But sometimes, there's just something in the air that's saying "End it now," and that something could be the promise of more rewarding work elsewhere. Be courteous, and give your client advance notice so he can find a replacement, then go gracefully and graciously.

5. Damage control is key.

You've exhausted every alternative. You find yourself avoiding this person's phone calls, ready to spit hostile emails, and are teetering on the verge of unprofessionalism because you're just so darned frustrated at the way things are going. These are the red flags that say, "Time to end a relationship that's going from bad to worse." Pull yourself together, arm yourself with the right resources and aftermath solutions, and initiate a departure discussion.

Sometimes, it's just better to cut your losses and move on to greener pastures.

Copyright 2005 Dina Giolitto. All rights reserved.