What do you do if your boss in the Creator Economy keeps shifting priorities and expectations?

2 Manage your time

The second step to deal with a boss who keeps shifting priorities and expectations is to manage your time effectively . Don't let their changes disrupt your workflow or compromise your quality. Prioritize your tasks, create a schedule, and stick to it as much as possible. If your boss asks you to do something new or different, assess how much time and effort it will take and how it will impact your other deadlines. If you need more time or resources, let them know and ask for an extension or a trade-off. Don't overcommit or underdeliver.

3 Create a backup plan

The third step to deal with a boss who keeps shifting priorities and expectations is to create a backup plan. Don't put all your eggs in one basket or rely on one source of income or exposure. Diversify your portfolio, build your network, and explore other opportunities. If your boss becomes too difficult or unreliable, you can always walk away or switch to another project or platform. Have a contingency plan in case things go wrong or don't work out as expected. Be flexible and adaptable, but also be prepared.

4 Seek feedback

The fourth step to deal with a boss who keeps shifting priorities and expectations is to seek feedback. Don't wait until the end of the project or the contract to find out how your boss feels about your work. Ask for regular and constructive feedback, both positive and negative. Use feedback to improve your skills, adjust your strategy, and meet your boss's needs and preferences. Feedback can also help you avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and surprises. Be open to criticism, but also be confident in your value and vision.

5 Set boundaries

The fifth step to deal with a boss who keeps shifting priorities and expectations is to set boundaries. Don't let your boss take advantage of you, disrespect you, or micromanage you. Establish clear and reasonable expectations, rules, and limits for your work and relationship. Say no when you need to, and don't be afraid to stand up for yourself and your work. Respect your boss, but also respect yourself and your time. Don't let your boss interfere with your personal life, your health, or your happiness.

6 Learn and grow

The sixth step to deal with a boss who keeps shifting priorities and expectations is to learn and grow. Don't let your boss's behavior discourage you, demotivate you, or diminish you. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn new skills, gain new insights, and overcome new challenges. See your boss as a teacher, a coach, or a mentor, not as an enemy, a competitor, or a tyrant. Learn from your mistakes, celebrate your achievements, and appreciate your growth. Don't let your boss define you, but rather use them to refine you.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?