Hey!

Uncertainty is a part of the game in life and work and everyone experiences it. But as indie workers, we feel every bump and shift. 

That’s even truer with the levels of chaos we’re going through these days. 

But never forget—flexibility and agility are an advantage in times like these—but only for those who move with intention. This month, we’re going to be covering four pieces of advice on what to do when your markets are harder to read and the future is uncertain.

I’ve talked a little bit about how I got into freelancing through the world of Brazilian jiu jitsu. It taught me a lot about myself, strategy, and uncertainty. It’s a very strategic and tactical game, but there’s one period where predictability goes out the window and anything can happen. That period is called a “scramble”. 

In those periods, there are a few things to keep in mind—and I’ve found they apply really well to the world of freelancing. 

Detangle yourself

When chaos agents are in control and it’s hard to see too far in the future, it’s time to cut loose anything that’s holding you back and not providing you value. 

That client that just sucks up your time with work you’re not getting paid for? They need to go. That partner who wants to sit on the phone and complain about their business for hours at a time? Your calendar’s full. 

Personally, in preparation for this coming U.S. administration, I cut loose speculative relationships. The risk was fine when the future looked pretty clear, but now I have no idea where or when the world is going to land, so they had to go. 

Take some time this week to look for entanglements that aren’t yielding tangible value…and start looking for an exit. 

Megan

Want to get the most out of your employment experience? Grab your free Employment Value Extraction worksheet here.

Looking for freelance inspiration? Check out some of my favorite Black freelancers here.