When in Doubt, Ask for Permission (Chapter 2)

It's a well-known fact that asking for permission is the key to success in the modern world. Or is it?

As we've established, the art of asking for permission is a delicate balance of assertiveness and anxiety. Too little, and you come across as a pushy overachiever. Too much, and you're just plain annoying.

In this chapter, we'll explore the finer points of permission-seeking, from the importance of proper timing to the art of reading between the lines.

Chapter 2: Timing is Everything (But Not Really)

When to ask for permission? The answer, of course, is "whenever you can." But let's be real, that's not exactly helpful.

Here are some more specific guidelines:

• Ask for permission during your lunch break. It's the perfect opportunity to catch up on some paperwork.
• Before you start a project. It's always better to be safe than sorry (or in this case, better to be delayed than embarrassed).
• Whenever you're on the phone. It's not like you're in a meeting or anything (even though you are).

Read Chapter 3: Permission is the New Black

Check out our Appendix: Asking for Permission in the Age of AI