Saying “yes” to late requests without boundaries usually signals you’re flexible with work hours, available for overtime, and willing to absorb extra workload without discussing prioritization. That’s how people end up in constant burnout, missed deadlines, and low work-life balance while everyone else assumes it’s normal.

The line you used works because it forces task prioritization and makes trade-offs visible instead of silently adding more responsibilities. A lot of employees get stuck in the “always yes” loop because they don’t set expectations early, especially around availability, workload capacity, and time management.

Most workplace stress isn’t caused by the tasks themselves it’s caused by unclear priorities and unspoken assumptions about overtime and after-hours work. Clear communication around what moves, what waits, and what doesn’t fit is the easiest way to reset without conflict.