Some people say I’m a heartbreaker.

Some just call me picky.

A few venture into the terminology of savagery.

Regardless, I don’t say yes to dates that often. Not that I get asked out a ton, but it's just ~weird~ to say yes to someone I’m not interested in spending time with–especially when that person asks via text. Anyway, it’s definitely always best, to be honest in a response.

But if you’re like me & don’t have the heart to cleanly break a heart, here are a few “techniques” I’ve already tested out for you (*disclaimer: don’t actually try these out at home; that would NOT be cool*):

1. “I don’t know…”

Technically, the word “no” is part of “know,” so it’s kinda...sorta...almost...direct? Never mind the extraneous info on it. Just like...read between the lines?

2. “I’m not sure…”

This is to follow up the “I don’t know...” should he/she/said human persist because, to be fair, one can never be "too sure."

3. “Oh, I’m busy that day…”

Sometimes you are actually busy that day. And when they ask about the next day, sometimes you’re actually busy that day, too (and every single day of the year, apparently) :(

4. “What did you have in mind?”

Prolong the pain & follow this up with a nice “Hm…” or a “Mmm, I don’t really like [insert random burger joint here].” Maybe they'll see that you don't have that much in common after all? *hopes with all of might*

5. “I don’t think so…”

This one typically gets no reply...I wonder why…

6. “Like a date date?”

Just to clarify, as if typing one, singular “date” only means an empty square on a calendar and not spending time in the same general vicinity together for a brief or extended period of time...and definitely not with the potential to develop into a recurring event...no way.

7. “You mean like, the fruit...?”

For when you want to be punny and change the subject to produce...cuz who doesn’t love talking about Phoenix dactylifera? It's a great topic for deep conversations; trust me.

8. *Deflects with an irrelevant question*

“OMG! Did you see the puppies on campus today?” Actually, puppers/doggos/woofers are ALWAYS relevant, so it’s not totally random! It makes sense if you (don't) think about it?

9. “I’ll let you know…”

But will you? WILL YOU? Only time will tell...

10. *Deletes from Snapchat*

Yikes! When all else fails, sometimes our pesky thumbs help act as our wingmen and just happen to do us a favor and slip on the touch screen on exactly the right button at exactly the right time–no biggie!

In all seriousness, it is ok to say "no." If you aren't feeling it, you aren't feeling it. Just please, though...be careful how you say it :)