- "I'm sorry, but I can't do that."
- "No, I'm not interested."
Offering an alternative:
- "I'm busy right now, but I'd be happy to help you later."
- "I can't go out tonight, but we can get together next weekend."
Setting boundaries:
- "I don't feel comfortable doing that."
- "I need some time to think about it."
Setting Expectations:
- "I'm not available to answer phone calls after 8 pm."
- "I can only spend $100 on the gift."
Giving a reason:
- "I'm already committed to another project."
- "I don't have the skills to do that."
Using humor:
- "My schedule is so packed, I don't even have time to scratch my nose!"
- "I'd love to, but I have a dentist appointment that I can't reschedule."
Leaving:
- Physically leave the situation if it is safe to do so.
- End a conversation by saying goodbye and walking away.