Or, they’re making you uncomfortable by providingunsolicited adviceor simply being unpleasant.
Regardless, you want to exit the conversation, but you dont want to be rude or escalate things.
So, what do you do?
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But, as a therapist, I believe theres an art to direct communication.
For example, usingI-languagecan help diffuse the possibility of a conversation escalating into an argument.
Naturally, all of this is easier said than done.
When faced with telling someone youre not interested, things can immediately feel contentious.
Thats why Ive rounded up 25 different therapist-approved ways to say, I’m just not interested.
You don’t want to hurt their feelings or even fear of them lashing out at you.
Plus, you just may not be interested due to logistical reasons.
These responses can help you navigate this sticky situation.
Thank you for letting me know.
I just dont feel the same way.
This may feel brutal, but it ishonestand direct.
It takes courage to say theyre interested in you but that doesnt mean youre obligated to reciprocate those feelings.
I am flattered, but I am not interested.
Only use this if you are actually flattered.
Honesty is the best policy, so no need to offer a compliment if you dont feel that way.
Im not open to exploring anything romantic right now.
Notice the wordsright now?
Say this if you might be interested in this person under different circumstances.
Im not interested in going on a date with you.
This is direct and to the point.
It is best used if someone pesters you for a date despite your many rejections.
In these cases, short, direct, and straight to the point is the way to go.
Im sorry to interrupt but I have to go.
It’s direct but it gets the job done.
No, thank you.
Remember, no is a complete sentence.
Thank you, but Im not interested.
Honest, polite, and an effective I-statement.
Now isnt a good time.
There are a few different ways to approach these issues, all of which involve polite but firm communication.
Thank you for your ideas.
Ive got this covered but maybe we can collaborate in the future.
Just because now isnt a good time doesnt mean never.
Lets save that idea for another time.
Again, their idea may not be the solution you need right now, but it could be later.
Thank you so much for thinking of this, but I need to pass.
We have so much to dolets keep the focus on work.
Say this when a colleague is trying tomix personal with professional.
There’s trust built, so your friendshouldknow where your intentions lie.
But, in any case, here are some kind ways to gently let your friend down.
I say this with love, but can we change the subject?
This close communication is one benefit of friendship.
Im not up to talking about this right now.
Lets talk about something else.
Again, with afriend, there is a hope you might be honest and keep the conversation moving.
Thats not really my vibe.
A casual way to redirect the conversation when it is going toward an off-limits topic.
There are so many things I want to tell you about lets get into it.
A simple way to gently redirect theconversation.
Here are some ways to redirect the conversation when things get sticky.
I know you want to help me, but lets talk about you instead.
Redirecting the conversation back to them can be a non-confrontational way to avoid furtherunsolicited advice.
Thank you for trying to help.
Im doing everything I can right now, so I cant take in any more advice.
This is honest and earnest.
But, be forewarned, some particularly prickly personalities may not love this response.
Im feeling good about this situation, but I appreciate you trying to help me.
Sometimes our loved ones take a stab at give us advice when we are actually satisfied with our circumstances.
This is a firmboundaryyou can set.
Im tired of thinking about this.
Lets talk about something else.
If theyre continuing to press you about a situation, youre likely pretty exhausted.
Let them know that as you change the subject.
With this in mind, lets consider some safety measures.
If a stranger begins harassing you, contactingemergency servicescan be helpful before things escalate.
If speaking to them directly about your frustration doesnt work, consider minimizing the time spent with them.
Above all, remember youre not obligated to stay in conversations that dont feel right for you.
You deserve to set boundaries.
Let these phrases help guide the way.
