"Pay attention to that first time the boss’s guidance feels very prescriptive or more precise than you expected. You’re still in what we call the “forgiveness zone,” which means you can regain their trust through quick corrective actions. Ask them whether there was something you did recently that triggered their feedback. Have them explain what they would have done differently in that situation. Listen carefully. They are describing their expectations about the right approach to how they want things done or the real priority they want you to focus on.  Adapt your workflow to meet their expectations, and make sure to demonstrate, in ways that are highly visible to them, your new behaviors or your heightened emphasis on their priorities."