Why am I intimidated by a small number of people?

[WhatWouldHopperDo]

I am 52. I have years of experience in my job and I am good at it. I know it inside out. If I can’t answer a query from a client I always know how to resolve it or who can help. I get great feedback.

However, there are a tiny number of people, I can think of 5 or 6 who I feel completely intimidated by. They are clients that I support. In every meeting I feel like they’re waiting to trip me up. This isn’t really them, it’s me who perceives this issue. I know this because I was recently moved from 2 of their areas and they complained and asked for me back so I assume they’re happy with my support.

I just don’t know why I revert to teacher/student mindset. I have about 20
other clients where I do exactly the same work and I don’t feel like this.

Any tips on not letting myself get flustered by them?

I think it’s a matter of good company. Some people are just bad company and bring the worst out.
the problem is with them, not you. You say they are ‘waiting to trip you up’ what a horrible, negative way to be and suggest they get an ego trip out of it.
I know exactly what you mean as I’ve found the same with clients, some bring out the absolute best in you and there have been times where I’ve amazed myself with advice etc.
others…