For example, if your parents want to do something with you, but you have too much homework, let them know. Try saying, “I know this is important to you, but catching up on work is really my top priority right now. Let’s eat together tomorrow when I’m finished with this essay. ” Communicate dislike for others softly. If you’re invited to a party with people you don’t care for, for example, say something like, “It is so nice of you to invite me, but I don’t get along so well with that crowd. ” A conversation with your boss might be a bit harder. Maybe you really hate the job you’ve been assigned, but you don’t want to quit completely. Try saying, “Ms. Bartlett, I wanted to talk to you about the project. I’m trying my best but it’s been weighing me down and I need to take break. Can we talk about a different topic for my next assignment?”
If you are a student, you might designate certain evenings for an extracurricular activity or have a homework day on the weekend. If you’re asked to attend an event, you can say, “Sorry, but I have soccer practice that day. ” Remember to do the thing you say you are going to do. Your goal is not to be labeled dishonest. Although you won’t be lying by saying you have to do something else, someone might get offended if you pick another activity over doing something with them. This is more likely to happen if people know that you’ve made exceptions to your scheduled activities in the past. Stick to your schedule or be prepared to explain yourself.
You can say “No” and still be gracious and kind. Try saying, “Thank you for inviting me, but I have to pass. ” Keep it short and direct. You have a right to say “no” to things, especially if they are not within your responsibilities.
You can say “No” and still be gracious and kind. Try saying, “Thank you for inviting me, but I have to pass. ” Keep it short and direct. You have a right to say “no” to things, especially if they are not within your responsibilities.
For example, if you made plans to go to the park, but you really would rather stay home and relax, try inviting your friends over instead. You can say, “Hey, I still want to hang out, but I’m feeling lazy. Can we hang out at my place instead? I’ll make some snacks. ” Rescheduling is another way to get out of something you aren’t up for in the moment. Try saying, “Something came up. Can we change dinner to Monday night?”[4] X Research source
Shift blame without using names. If you don’t want to get your coworkers in trouble, explain the facts and details of what went wrong without mentioning specific people. [6] X Research source Remember to point out the things that were beyond your control or given responsibilities.
Keep your message short and sweet. Try writing, “Hey everyone, I’m not going to make it today. "
Sickness may still be the best way to get out of school or work, because you are allotted sick days. However, you may use up a valuable sick day that you later need when you are truly unable to get out of bed.
If the plan was to meet a friend or coworker, call them up and say, “I’m sorry, I’ve got too much work to do. Can we raincheck?” You might be trying to get out of something with your parents. Try saying, “Dad, I just feel like I need to study more for the math test. I really want to get a good grade. ” It helps if you actually have a test or paper coming up. Even if you don’t end up studying, at least you won’t get caught in a lie if your parents happen to check with your teachers.
Note that the person may offer to buy the ticket for you or pay for your drinks. If this is the case, say, “I wouldn’t feel comfortable with that. I need to be frugal and stay home a little more. ”
Be careful with email invites. Some people use applications that allow them to see if a receiver has opened an email.
If your boss gives you task you don’t like, find clever ways to avoid doing it. Spend more time on something you like doing, wait until the last minute to do it, or turn it in late. [11] X Research source Avoid showing enthusiasm when you complete your assignment. Consistent social invitations may be harder to get out of. Show up late to the events and leave early. Spend most of the time on your cell phone so you don’t have to talk to anyone. The host may stop inviting you if you are boring enough.
Point to transportation problems. Try saying that your car won’t start or that there’s been a train accident. This can either buy you some extra time or completely prevent you from doing something. Blame your phone or computer. Phones and computers have difficulties often enough that you can use this excuse at least once. Say that your computer broke down or your phone won’t turn on.
If you have children, try saying, “My son isn’t feeling well. I have to go pick him up. ” If you are on a date, try to look disappointed and say, “My roommate locked herself out, and I have to go let her in. Let’s meet up later. ”
A short trip to the bathroom may be all the time you need to get out of something. For example, if you’re in class and you don’t want to participate in an activity, ask your teacher to use the bathroom. Take your time so you miss the full activity. You don’t always have to use the bathroom as an excuse for leaving. You can say that you’re going to get more popcorn from the concession stand, drinks, or anything you might need in the moment. [14] X Research source That way, you have a real reason to take your coat and bag with you.
