Many of us have a lot of trouble saying “no” to others. Even though that is really what we want to say. We’re hesitant about hurting or offending the person, we’re afraid to come across as callous and unfeeling, we fear to tarnish our nice and pleasant reputation…

Question: “Wanna have lunch?”
Honest answer: Not with you!
Answer that comes out: “Ermm… okay.”

“Let me get you a drink.”
No thank you.
“Thanks.”

“Let me accompany you home.”
Over my cremated body!
“It’s okay…”

The next time when “no” is meant, just say a gentle “I don’t think so.” If necessary, an emphatic “I really don’t think so.”
This way, the other person’s ego is left (mostly) intact, and we still get to keep our reputation.