Not Interested? Here’s How To Let A Guy Down Gently

Not Interested? Here’s How To Let A Guy Down Gently ©iStock/Anchiy

For a woman, it’s flattering to be hit on once in a while. It can be huge confidence booster and sometimes, it’s just nice to be complimented by a complete stranger. However, it’s not always warranted when we’re alone relaxing at a coffee shop or trying to have a night out with our friends without being bothered. Although some of us are much more capable of being upfront with a guy who’s trying to make a move, not all of us feel as comfortable saying no. Here are some ways to turn a guy down as gently as possible.

  1. Tell him you’re taken. You don’t want to break the poor guy’s heart when he’s already mustered up the courage to speak to you. Just let him down easily. Tell him that you are currently seeing someone or already in a relationship. Yes, you may be telling a small white lie, but he won’t know that. If he’s a decent guy, he’ll leave you alone and won’t stomp on another man’s territory.
  2. Use your friend as a buffer. If your friends are there with you, call in reinforcement and get some help if you really need it. Bring in your friend to diffuse the situation and let them casually pull you away. It’s not always easy to say no on your own, and that’s what friends are for – to save you from these types of awkward situations.
  3. Make an “emergency” call. Many of us may have used the classic fake emergency excuse to get out of a bad date, and this can still apply when you’re getting hit on. You can secretly pretend to receive a call so you can leave in a rush or even text a friend so that they can actually call you.
  4. Excuse yourself to “go to the restroom”. What better excuse to use than having to go to the restroom? When nature calls, you have to answer, right? Maybe you even have to actually go. Take the time to touch up your make up, adjust your bra, or something along those lines. Regardless, it gives you an out without being rude and he’ll hopefully leave by the time you return.
  5. Relocate. If all else fails, just get up and leave. Remove yourself from the situation. Go to a different part of the bar, restaurant, etc., or even go to a completely different place. If he won’t take no for an answer, then it’s best to either call it a night or take the party elsewhere.
  6. Just be honest. Honesty is the always best policy. If you’re completely comfortable providing a flat-out response telling him that you’re not interested, then by all means, go for this option first. People respect honesty and they can usually tell if you’re lying, anyway. Sometimes, the best route is to just tell the truth.
Lindsey is a Digital Advertising Professional and Freelance Writer based in New York City. In her spare time, she enjoys running, traveling, and drinking ridiculous amounts of coffee. Follow her on Twitter @lindseyruns
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