while(self++) { #60 } // Never Hurts to Ask
Recently, I’ve found myself telling people: “It never hurts to ask.” People are afraid of appearing stupid or uneducated. Asking questions implies that they don’t know something. When it comes to accomplishing tasks, you sacrifice long term benefit (understanding and acting accordingly) in exchange for short term benefit (not appearing stupid for a limited period of time) when you don’t asking clarifying questions.
This advice applies in many contexts, whether you’re asked a difficult question during a technical interview, given an amorphous assignment at work, or confused about how to do something. But in some cases — like when clear, uninhibited consent is necessary — not asking can be downright traumatizing for victims. The bottom line is: If there’s ambuiguity, ask.
