If it's a good idea, go ahead and do it. It is much easier to apologize than it is to get permission. - Admiral Grace Hopper The idea behind this quote is the same as Tim Ferriss' motto "It's better to beg forgiveness than to ask permission". It highlights an important element of leadership - leaders don't always seek permission to do the right thing. If seeking permission would take too long or could prevent them doing what they need to do good leaders will often ignore the rules and clear up the mess later. That takes courage and confidence in your own judgement but if you take the action for the right reasons it's a risk worth taking.