Setting the scene
Lessons on saying no and setting boundaries
Repeat my no and move toward a friend
Real moments. A few choices. Words that work.
Repeat your no once and walk toward a friend. Practice the moment in a short Surefoot lesson.
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You are at a dorm get-together with people from your floor. You already said no thanks to a drink, twice.
At a gathering, someone keeps offering another drink after you have declined twice.
What helps you keep your boundary?
- Repeat my no and move toward a friend.
- Take it so they stop asking.
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Repeat my no and move toward a friend.
You can be brief and change your location. A respectful person accepts your answer. Repeated pressure after a refusal matters. You can stop explaining and move toward friends, staff, or an exit.
Your next step
Repeat your no once and walk toward a friend.
Words you can use
“No. I’m done. I’m leaving.”
Sources: One Love
Questions about “No is a complete answer.”
Why does repeating no and moving away help keep a boundary?
Repeating your refusal and changing your location helps because it clearly restates your decision while physically removing you from persistent pressure.
Source: One Love
How can I say no in my own words without giving excuses?
You can say a clear, short phrase such as "No. I'm done. I'm leaving." to state your decision without needing to justify it.
Source: One Love
What should I do if someone keeps pushing after I repeat my no?
You can stop explaining yourself and immediately walk toward a friend, campus staff, or an exit for safety and support.
Source: One Love
Why shouldn't I just accept the drink to make them stop asking?
You should not accept a drink just to appease someone because you never have to consume anything simply to manage another person's reaction.
Source: One Love
How can I help a friend who is getting pressured to drink at a party?
You can step in to offer them an easy exit by walking over and inviting them to move to another spot with you.
Source: One Love
Last updated October 11, 2026.