The Extra Task Trap

Metaphorical Narrative

At work, your colleague leans over: “Could you take this on too? It won’t take long.”
The request is small, casual — but you already know your schedule is full, your energy spoken for.

The ego whispers: Say yes — be a team player, be noble.
But you’ve run this math before. Every extra “yes” steals focus, bleeds energy, and drags recovery across days.

Core Insight

This isn’t about generosity or reputation. It’s about energy accounting.

• If you add one more task, the cost doesn’t vanish; it compounds.
• Ego sells it as nobility; your body knows it as fatigue.
• The clean “no” is not selfish — it’s how you protect the work you’ve already committed to.

Saturday Experiment

When the next “quick favor” appears, pause. Ask: “What does this actually cost me across the next three days?” Answer from that math, not the ego’s applause.

Sunday Reflection

• How often does he accept in order to look noble?
• How often does he guard the energy needed for the tasks already chosen?
• What happens when he lets the refusal be quiet and steady?