A good way to avoid having people get mad at you for saying “no” to their requests is to develop the mental toughness to not drag things out. It’s a matter of sacrificing the short-term comfort of avoiding embarrassment, or possible negative backlash, in exchange for long-term peace of mind — i.e., knowing that the matter has been permanently resolved.

To boot, the other person will end up liking you more, not less, for being firm and clear with him from the outset. You didn’t give him false hope (always a breeding ground for ill feelings) and didn’t waste his time. In addition, you’re able to completely forget about the matter and go about your business with a clear mind.

The inability to make a quick decision when it comes to denying a request is a sign of weakness. Not a good way to operate. A much better idea is to learn to say no politely and pleasantly, but immediately and firmly.