Q&A: How to Handle Changing Directions at Work Without Losing Your Cool

A listener asks how to handle frustration when work on a project is dropped because directions change. Emily Sander shares that this happens often to Chiefs of Staff and explains the value of understanding the reason behind changes, reframing “wasted” work, and managing your emotional response. Helpful strategies include asking why priorities shifted, recognizing that work might be reused later, and focusing on what’s best for the team.Get in touch with Emily:Need help handling changing directions at work? Book a clarity call w/ Emily here. Free Leadership Resources LinkedInWebsiteNewsletter Who Am I?If we haven’t met before - Hi👋 I’m Emily, Chief of Staff turned Executive Leadership Coach. After a thrilling ride up the corporate ladder, I’m focusing on what I love - working with people to realize their professional and personal goals. Through my videos here on this channel, books, podcast guest spots, and newsletter, I share new ideas and practical and tactical tools to help you be more productive and build the career and life you want.Time Stamps:00:25 Listener Question: When Work Gets Derailed by Changing Priorities01:17 Step 1: Ask ‘Why Are We Changing Direction?’ (and When to Push Back)03:07 Explaining the ‘Why’ to the Team Without Needing to Agree04:08 Reframing ‘Wasted Work’: What Still Carries Forward05:13 When ‘Unused’ Work Becomes Valuable Later06:57 Managing the Emotional Whiplash + Refocus on What the Team Needs Next08:59 Wrap-Up + Next Week + Sponsor Message