TLDR Web Dev · OPINIONS & ADVICE

SAYING NO IS NOT A FREE ACTION IN THE WORLD OF SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

shiftmag.dev6 min read

Summary from the TLDR Web Dev newsletter

Saying no in software engineering, while important for work-life balance, comes with psychological and social costs, making it harder than it seems. People often avoid refusing requests due to negative connotations, potential career risks, and the desire to please others. Instead of simply telling people to "just say no," we should understand the burden of refusal and create a supportive culture that encourages saying no when necessary.