go through a lean patch

To experience or be in the midst of a period of failure, decline, or poor performance or results. Her business has been going through a bit of a lean patch lately. If things don't pick up soon, she might have to close shop. Though the team has gone through a lean patch in recent years, they still have a very devoted fanbase. Ugh, we've lost so many clients this quarter—we can't afford to go through a lean patch next quarter as well.