Dysfunctional relationships don’t just exist in unhealthy marriages or families. They can show up in network (relationship) marketing too—especially when the need to feel “needed” gets in the way of healthy leadership.
I’ve seen influencer types waltz into companies, sell a bunch of starter kits, win prizes and popularity contests, stack their teams like chess pieces—and then bail just as their organization begins to crumble. They may blame everyone else, but the real reason they stopped growing was because their model wasn’t sustainable.
They’ll blame “hustle culture,” call their upline toxic, and post long-winded, emotional exit statements. But what really happened?
If your network marketing business is causing you guilt, stress, or a constant sense of anxious pressure, you’re probably doing it wrong.
What kind of leader do you want to be? Examine yourself. Do you just like to be needed? Do you allow your leaders the freedom and ease to do things their own way or do you try to control them?
Are you actively growing followers or leaders? If you’re growing followers, they may adore you, but they will also always need you. And when that stops working, they’ll also blame you.
When you’re the sole source of energy and inspiration, you’ll eventually run dry. And remember—followers are fickle. There’s always a new rockstar.
Feeling a little called out? It’s okay. There is no shame in wanting to be loved and valued, but when your need for validation starts outweighing your mission to empower others, it backfires. The relationship becomes unhealthy when you become emotionally dependent upon those you’re supposed to be serving and lifting up.
Get curious. Become self-aware. Examine your motives and make intentional adjustments. Show yourself grace in the process—it’s part of growth. Talk to a mentor. Set healthy boundaries. Let your team stumble now and then—it’s how they learn.
When you’re truly growing leaders, you won’t need to micromanage. You’ll get to cheer them on like a proud mama, watching them soar on wings they built themselves. And that success? It’ll still carry your fingerprint—without draining your soul.
