For example, you could use the line, “I appreciate you asking me, but no thank you. " You could also say, “No, I’m not looking to date right now. " Be sure to make “no” part of your answer so you are very clear. [2] X Research source
For instance, you could note, “You seem like a good person, but I don’t want to date anyone, so I’m going to say ’no. ‘”
To give out a fake number, you can just make up a number, but make sure it’s not someone else’s number. Also, this tactic can backfire if the person tries to call it or sees you again sometime. Another option is to say you have a boyfriend or girlfriend. You can also use a friend as a pretend significant other; however, if you use this tactic, you may drive off other people, which can be a problem if you are trying to meet people.
For instance, telling a manager you don’t like them probably isn’t going to be all that helpful to you. Your manager holds power over your career and can make your work life miserable, so telling a manager you don’t like them isn’t going to be beneficial. You might also get in trouble for insubordination. In addition, you may weigh your options if the person you don’t like is a family member or a friend of the family. If you’re going to see the person on a regular basis, telling them you don’t like them is only going to make those situations more difficult. Similarly, if the person is a mutual friend with other friends, it may make social gatherings more difficult if you tell the person you don’t like them. Also, consider whether you’re being fair in your dislike. Maybe you took an instant dislike to someone without getting to know them. Try getting to know the person better before making a snap judgment.
If you’re too brutal, you may have trouble making friends with other people. Word will get around. Don’t be abusive or mean when you talk to the person; be as respectful and calm as possible. For instance, saying, “I can’t stand to be around you. " is pretty mean. Instead, try, “Our values are too different, and I don’t really have time for new friends. "
Also, try not to smile at the person. You don’t have to frown, but smiling makes you more approachable. This approach can lead to other people seeing you as standoffish or a snob, so be careful.
Also, try not to smile at the person. You don’t have to frown, but smiling makes you more approachable. This approach can lead to other people seeing you as standoffish or a snob, so be careful.
You could say something like, “I don’t think we’re compatible as friends, but it was nice to meet you. "
You might say something like: “I’m sensing you want more friendship from me. That’s more than I’m willing to give right now. If you still want to be closer friends with me in a few months, would you be willing to check back in with me then?” Alternatively, you could say, “Thanks for your kind request for friendship. You seem like a wonderful person. I’m just not interested, thanks. "
What do I hope will happen when I tell this person I don’t like them? Do I want them to leave me alone? (Then maybe I should ask for that instead. ) Do I want to see them less? (Then maybe I should tell them I can only hangout once a month. ) Do I want to hurt this person’s feelings? Will I regret hurting their feelings afterward?
For example, saying, “You’re an idiot, and I don’t like you,” isn’t really appropriate. Instead you could say, “I know you’d like to hang out more, but I am not comfortable with that. I feel our beliefs are too different. "
Sitting down with them in person is the best, though you can send a letter or email if that’s your only option. Establish why you want to stop being friends. Ideally, put the blame on yourself, such as “I’m just not the same person I was, and I think we don’t fit together as friends anymore. " Another option is asking to take a break. Maybe you just need some space to adjust, although taking a break can also be a way to ease the person into a more permanent break.
People sometimes use this method in an attempt to spare the other person’s feelings, but sometimes “ghosting” like this can actually be more confusing and hurtful, and just prolong the inevitable. The person may start to worry about you and may not understand that you’re trying to end the relationship, so it’s usually best to just be direct if possible. Know that if you avoid the person, you may end up having to be direct in the end. They may ask if something is wrong or if you are mad or avoiding them. Prepare yourself to answer these questions. One way to avoid people in person is to use work as an excuse, such as, “I’d love to chat, but I really need to get back to work. "