Don't Work with Toxic Brands; Find Ones That Respect You

The quickest way to convince yourself that sponsorships suck is to stay attached to toxic brand relationships indefinitely.

"The money's OK," you think. "It'll get better. They'll get nicer."

It never does, and they never do.

I mean, sure, the brand gives you crippling anxiety 24/7, but at least you're getting $100 and a free bag of potato chips every few months!

The only way to permanently sever that toxic tether is to stop running from fear.

Firing a brand is not fun. They might get mad. They might try to blame you.

But the longer you refrain from doing what needs to be done, the less mental space you can devote to building healthier partnerships with brands who respect you.

Still trying to figure out what to say to end a partnership?

Hey [name],

I've enjoyed working with you over the last X months and am so proud of our work together.

Moving forward, I've decided to focus on other projects and will no longer be able to continue our partnership.

I wish you all the best.

[Your name]

Then hit send.

Congrats, you're free.