No problem for me.
If I'm told "descend to FLxx" I descend straightaway. If I wouldn't have chosen that particular point to descend I go down at 500fpm until I intercept my preferred profile.
If ATC aren't happy with my actions they can come back and give "expedite descent..." instructions.
If I am given "descend......your discretion" then I do exactly that. But if I am not given that option then I go down immeadiately.
We have enough hassle in our job without querying ATC instructions which only clutters up the airwaves and causes friction between parties who should be working harmonioulsy.