50 Fool-Proof, Guilt-Free Ways to say “Thanks, but no thanks.”

There’s nothing like having some tried and true stock phrases to lean on when you’re squirming in a moment of having been asked to do something you’d just really rather not. These phrases range from ultra simple (‘No’) to more complex and refined.

Skim through, see what stands out, and practice, practice, practice until it feels so natural it just tumbles out of your mouth!

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1. No.

2. Thanks, but no.

3. Thanks for asking. Now’s not a good time.

4. What a fantastic opportunity! Unfortunately I just don’t have the time right now.

5. I can’t today, but check back in with me next month.

6. That’s not an option.

7. How am I supposed to do that? (friendly tone)

8. That’s a great idea. Why don’t you take that on?

9. Thanks for your thoughts — I’ll leave that to your good judgement.

10. That’s not something I’m willing/interested to talk about right now.

11. I appreciate that you care, but that’s really none of your business.

12. I really think that’s more in your/a co-worker’s wheelhouse.

13. My boss/advisors/spouse won’t go for that.

14. It’s not feasible for me to take that on right now.

15. What a wonderful project! The demands would be too much for me to take on right now, but thanks for asking.

16. My body double could take that on. (Friendly tone)

17. If only I had a stunt double!

18. That sounds fun! I’ve already made plans for that night/weekend/day.

19. Aw man, I have another commitment.

20. I wish I could make it work.

21. That’s really not for me, but thanks for checking in!

22. I’m not interested right now, but I can give some thought to who might be a good fit.

23. I can’t commit 100% right now, and don’t want to leave you high and dry later on.

24. I’d love to help, but I can’t make that time work.

25. You’re super enthusiastic and I love that! Why don’t we talk at 10 on Thursday morning?

26. I can’t do _______, but I’d be happy to _________.

27. I’d like to help but I’m not available that day/time/week. Are there any other options?

28. I can’t, but if something changes, I’ll let you know!

29. Not now, but another time might work.

30. This is too last minute for me to commit… can we plan for something in a few weeks?

31. Thanks for asking! I’d be interesting in hearing more in a few weeks.

32. My schedule’s full to bursting right now.

33. That’s really not my thing.

34. I’d rather not, but thanks for asking.

35. You’re really ambitious! I can send you an updated proposal, or I can complete the work we previously agreed to. What would you prefer?

36. Thanks for taking the time to talk with me — I’ll need to get going right at 2:00PM today.

37. I’ll pass.

38. I can’t, but here’s a list of people/organizations/resources that might be able to help.

39. You know, I really hate to do things halfway, and I’d have to if I signed on right now.

40. Hi! I have about 10 minutes to talk right now, or I can call you back on Friday.

41. This isn’t up for debate.

42. What kind of solution would you like to see here?

43. Is there an ideal outcome for you?

44. How can we come to an agreement on this?

45. You have a ton of info on this — I’ll ask you if I need some extra help.

46. You’re probably super busy. My schedule’s super hectic too, and I really need at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel.

47. If you’re not able be respectful, I’m going to hang up.

48. It seems like things are getting heated right now. Why don’t we circle back in an hour/a day/a week.

49. It seems like you’re really passionate about this! It might be best for you to take this on!

50. I’m really not the best person for the job, unfortunately.

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These stock phrases are excerpted from the Build Better Boundaries Workbook.

Grab your complimentary copy here.