What’s the most absurd process you've accidentally created by not saying "no"? One thought I've been having a lot recently is this: most issues I faced as an employee came from the inability to say No. It's a simple word. Two letters. Yet so powerful. You know how it works: Step 1: The innocent "Yes" Your manager asks you to manually update a report. You know there's a better way. But you agree. Why? - No time to debate - Not worth the energy - It's your manager asking Step 2: The simple repetition A week later, déjà vu. Same task, same problem: - Already said yes once - Rush with other projects - Promise a better solution next time Step 3: The bad process is born Plot twist: there is no next time! Your manager approaches: "Great job!". "Now, can you train the rest of the team on your method?" Just like that, your one-time "let's see later" became a company's best practice. This process will continue to exist on its own. It will drain energy. It will waste time. And everyone will repeat, "Remind me again, why exactly do we do it this way?" --- My experience: 1- When I look back, I said "yes" too many times. Hours wasted on inefficient tasks. 2- I've learnt the hard way how to say 'no' and find better ideas. It takes work and confidence. 3- Now, I see "no" as a productivity tool, not an obstacle. Two letters, big impact. I don't mean you should say "no" all the time. But when you truly believe it and have a better way of doing things, just go for it! Your future self will thank you.