Sometimes, when contemplating a course of action, it is better to seek forgiveness than to seek permission. Is it always a better course of action? No. How does one decide quickly which is the appropriate course? The answer is in the asymmetry of the problem, challenge, or opportunity—in terms of payoff and/or consequences. Low risk/high pay off vs. high risk/low pay off is your value proposition calculation. Where there is low risk or insignificant consequence for failing to get permission in advance of an action, seeking permission after the fact is the most effective strategy. Where there is high risk or significant consequence, such as being sent to jail, and getting a criminal record for the rest of your life, seek permission first and get it in writing.

Taking initiative is the very essence of acting without permission. When it works, everyone is happy. When initiative fails, some of us are unhappy. Usually though, we have a valuable lesson to learn. Unless you think you’ll be arrested and sent to jail or some equivalent personal or organizational disaster, take some initiative and act for our collective benefit!

A certain amount of consulting is appreciated, but at some point a little action is much more appreciated—followed up with a brief note or report about the incident and what was done to effectuate an appropriate solution. The true warrior is an action figure; the true warrior consults and demonstrates respect when it is appropriate, and is well practised at determining the risk/reward probabilities in order to determine quickly which tack he or she shall take.

You are warriors and when you take the initiative, solve problems, and take advantage of opportunities (explaining later and not waiting for the go ahead) you will succeed far beyond your expectations. So it has been written.