Sure; I've been a Nidan for 34 years. It hasn't affected my practice in the slightest. Of course, I refuse to play the political games that "earn" one higher ranks.
I've done away with the Fukyugata and Pinan series. Neither adds anything to the practice. I start with (Matsubayashi) Ananku for everyone to teach the basics, then the kata taught are personalized to each student