TOP 10 WAYS TO TURN DOWN A DRINK

ONE OF THESE SHOULD WORK FOR YOU, WHETHER YOU’RE SHY, CONFIDENT, OR JUST LOOKING FOR A CREATIVE REPLY.

1.   “No, thanks!” (No explanation necessary; your response can be short, sweet, and direct.)

2.   “I’ve had enough.” (Again, short, to the point and completely acceptable.)

3.   “Thanks, but I’ve got a ton of work to do later.”

4.   “I’d rather get my own, thanks.”

5.   “I’m allergic to alcohol.”

6.   “I’m driving tonight.”

7.   “I have a game/practice tomorrow.” (Known athletic commitment is a pre-requisite.)

8.   “I’m O.K. for now.” (BYOC: Bring  your own cup…keep it half filled, whether you are drinking or not.)

9.   “No thanks, I’m taking medication that I can’t drink with.”

10.“I’m dieting…alcohol’s got too many calories.”

Try saying no with a different twist:

·        With an invitation…

Leave the door open for the future…”Not now, but maybe later”…”another time”

·        With a friend…

Plan with a friend beforehand what each of you will or will not do, stay with the plan, and stick together. The decision to drink less then becomes kind of a team effort.

·        With an exit…

Plan to physically relocate in case you feel you are in an uncomfortable position.

·        Have a quick one liner up your sleeve, like…

“No thanks, I’m still a little partied out from New Year’s.”

“You know what your problem is? You think too much about others. Its time you start making yourself and your needs a top priority.”

“Why-do I seem sober?”

Copyright 1997 Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois and The Century Council. All rights reserved.