situation to reality, when you provide an excuse you also provide an opportunity for the person requesting your help to try and solve the problem preventing you from helping them. If they really need your help, they'll continue to try to convince you why you can do what they're asking. If you truly don't want to do it, check your excuses at the door. That said, providing a simple "no" without context can seem a bit harsh. All you have to say is "no, I'm not able to" or "no, I don't have enough time right now". Feel free to throw in a "but thank you for asking/thinking of me" if you feel like adding an extra dollop of politeness. Either way, the idea is to avoid excuses and simply give context. Too much information will only lead to problems and demonstrate that you feel guilty about saying no. When One "No" Isn't Enough Despite your best efforts, some people will continue to ask even after you've told them you can't help. This kind of behaviour is inappropriate and you shouldn't feel bad about countering this continued requests with a firm resolve. The person asking needs to know that you're not going to change your mind, and they're likely still asking you because 1) they feel desperate and 2) believe they can wear down your defenses until you'll finally just say "yes." To stop this, simply let the person know you understand what they want but that you've told them