It never rains but it pours. You have been in a dating slump for months and resigned yourself to another Saturday night painting your nails, when the tide turns. The wind changes direction, your stocks soar and you’re the latest hot property around the block.
Suddenly, you’re being asked out by a rash of boys, some of whom have never noticed you before. All this male attention, while flattering, can make you feel a bit like a piece of sirloin steak in a den of wolves. What if you like being single and don’t want to date any of them, or think none of them is the ‘right one’? Well, you don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, and if you play your cards right, that ‘not-quite-right’ guy may just lead you to your next relationship...
Second date blues: Saying “no” to a second date can be very tough, especially if they’re absolutely lovely but just not your type. A little self-motivational talk is required here. Just flash forward a couple of months and think how much harder it would be to break up then, then bite the bullet and let him know that you don’t see any romantic potential, but perhaps you can be friends.
Text turn-down: Nowadays people get asked out by email or text all the time. It can be awkward turning down someone, especially if you happen to work or socialise with them. However, email or text can turn into a good opportunity to compose your perfect answer. Don’t worry about seeming mean – what would be meaner, going out with someone out of pity, or turning them down right from the start so you don’t give a false impression?
User friendly: If you happen to know someone is interested in you, but he hasn’t asked you out then you can also use the same sneaky tactic to convey to him you’re not feeling it. This is when the friend-chain can be immensely helpful. If Scott has asked Rachel to let Jenny tell you that he likes you, you can then pass on the message along the same grapevine that you think he’s a cool guy, but just not your type. Easy let-down all around.
Stalker alert: Sometimes you’ll come across the type of guy who is so persistent that he’ll keep hassling you even after you’ve said no. Apart from moving to Utah, there’s not much more you can do than stand firm and keep saying no. You can go one better than that and ignore him completely. Don’t answer texts or phone calls and tell him in very clear terms that you don’t appreciate his attention. Learn to bandy around a few white lies such as “boyfriend who’s a cop” or “my brother is a body builder.”
The maybe pile: Then there are the boys in your ‘maybe’ pile. You don’t want to say yes straightaway because you’re not ready, but you don’t want them to lose interest or hope altogether. It can be a bit naughty doing it this way but the key here is subtle flirting. Let them know how much you regret having to turn them down, then explain your reasons for doing so – be it that you’re kinda seeing someone else, want more time being single or have to trek across Egypt on your camel. That way, you’re not burning all your bridges and when you feel ready and if they’re available, you can hook up!