The world expects that its requests will be accepted. That assignments, lunch dates, new projects, and even favors will get a yes. It’s just a small ask, the person thinks. The problem is obvious—if you spend all day hitting the ball back, you’ll never end up serving. Responding or reacting to incoming asks becomes the narration of your days, instead of the generous work of making your own contribution. Should you check your email or work on your book? Deciding to answer the email counts as a yes. But it might be a yes to the wrong thing.
