Not Strangers to Each Other: How to Refuse Relatives Who Impose Requests on You
The phrase “We’re relatives,” is usually followed by a request to borrow money or provide a service, for which the asker plans to pay back sometime later (if at all).
It is difficult to refuse in such a situation, because there is always a fear of offending a “soul mate”.
Refusing is also not an option, since soon your loved ones will sit on your neck.
What to do? Your task is to make your relatives think that they themselves do not want your help.
To achieve this "effect", try to voice the conditions under which you agree to do something for them.
For example, if someone asks you to live with them for a while, respond with active consent, but clarify that you are currently experiencing financial difficulties, so the “tenants” will have to pay half the rent.
Asked to give a tour? Again, nod vigorously, but add that after midnight there is little open in the city, and before 12 midnight you are very busy.
Ask for a loan? Ask in response when it would be convenient to go to a notary to draw up a receipt.
Another effective way to refuse a request without offending the other person is to immediately ask them for a favor in return, preferably the same one that they are asking of you.
Previously, we wrote about how to protect yourself from negativity by setting boundaries.
