How to Turn a Love Interest Down Gracefully

There is some pressure that comes with rejecting love advances. While you don’t want to hurt their feelings you also don’t want to be with them. The first time I tried it, my hands were trembling and I was uneasy. Here are some ways to turn down a love request.

Understand Your Feelings

Before you turn down someone’s love interest, check your own feelings. Remove all conflicted emotions from your side. When your heart is clear, you can then calmly express yourself without hesitation.

Use an Appropriate Setting

While your intentions might be sincere, you just communicate in an ideal setting. You should not reject an interest when the person is in a bad mood, in an office or in a loud atmosphere. Choosing a quiet place to turn down an interest creates less tension. Avoid social media or public scenes if possible as this could create a bad impression. Respect the person’s dignity and don’t ridicule them.

Be Honest 

When the time to communicate your response comes, be honest. You just not state all the reasons why you cannot accept them, but be clear about yourself. This is to prevent anyone from being friendzoned or taking advantage of. Use kind words and don’t be harsh in your rejection.

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The Message Must Be Clear 

To avoid confusing the person, please be clear. Don’t give them a false hope that you know won’t happen. Let them understand that as for today, you appreciate their interests but have other commitments. Erase all signs of vagueness and issue a clear statement.

Respect Their Feelings 

Your rejection may not be accepted in good faith which is normal. Some people might cry, feel sad or be dumbfounded. Give them time to pour out their emotions. Let them know you appreciate their courage but need to be sincere with them.

Maintain Healthy Relationship Afterwards 

Rejection should not make you enemies with the person. After the conversation, create a good boundary between the two of you, but don’t ignore them. You can still be friends with them but it should not be too close.

Turning down a love interest isn’t easy, but when done sincerely using kind words, it will be appreciated. It takes huge courage for someone to express their feelings, reject them with love.