Challenges of the design engineer

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I once read an article by an engineer which pointed out that one of the major challenges that he had to overcome as an engineer was visualizing projects through the customer's eyes.
While it might sound simplistic because the client's scope might address all the requirements, I believe that having the ability to know your clients and see their requirements through their eyes would not only make you a consultant of choice but will also make you a better engineer.
Thus said, what are some of the challenges and how did you overcome them that you faced as an engineer.