Most lawyers don’t even hear themselves say it anymore.

Yes, to the file dropped on them at the end of the day.
Yes, to the deadline everyone knows is unrealistic.
Yes to the “quick call” that wipes out their day.

Not because they want to —
But because they’re worried about what it will cost them if they don’t.

Losing a client.
Letting someone down.
Damaging their reputation and career.

And you know that moment:

You’re finally getting through work that matters…
and someone calls with,
“Can you just handle this before the end of the day?”

You feel it in your stomach.
Because you know you’re not heading off anytime soon.
And you still say yes.

That’s the yes that does the damage.
The one you resent.
The one that tells people your time is up for negotiation.
And the one you eventually start believing in too.

Notice something:
Tools like ChatGPT say yes to everything.
Not because it’s right,
but because the system is wired to agree.
No judgment.
No pause.
Just yes.

If your system looks the same, that’s a problem.

That’s you carrying the cost, so the system doesn’t have to change.

And it shows.

Try this instead:

Say no to what isn’t your responsibility, priority, or what doesn't help you meet your goals.
Leave at 6 at the latest.
Don’t apologise.

If you’re constantly rushed, people don’t see your work ethic.
They see risk.

Where do you see this happen most —
files, deadlines, or last-minute “quick calls”?