“It is better to ask for forgiveness than permission.”

This is one of my favorite quotes and one that I use quite often to guide my actions, professionally and personally.  I have found several different versions of the quote attributed to various people, but this version is my favorite.  It reminds me that sometimes it is okay to make decisions, take action, follow a gut feeling, etc. without checking in with someone first.  It is my reminder to take initiative and not get bogged down in the details and being perfect.

I typically see this as a positive trait. I am not afraid to take something and run with it.  But when can this trait become overused and derail success? Today we had a very lively discussion about this topic and I know where the Monar Crew’s arguments lie, but I’m interested in the opinions of our readers.

Question: When is too much initiative, or this drive to be “action-oriented,” a bad thing in an employee?  When can it be useful?  Are there traits that act as moderators?