When saying No

[from StudioClassroom]
Have you ever wanted to say "no" but somehow ended up saying "yes?"
Sometimes we just don't know how to refuse effectively and still sound polite.

Actually, we can say "no" without offending others.
It just takes practice and a good dose of willpower.
There are many ways to say "no" besides just a blunt "No!"
Note the variety of expressions used to say "no" in the following situations
.....no following....

Even with lots of ways to refuse, saying "no" can still be difficult for many of us.
Why? We may wish to please the other person and avoid hurting his/her feelings.

Or, perhaps we really want to do the suggested activity, but can’t for some reason.
Notice how expressing a desire to say "yes" softens the refusal in the following conversations.
.....no following....