The problem is that in situations like this the default answer is "No". So, now you've forced them to say no, and you've tipped your hand. A useful general pri

The problem is that in situations like this the default answer is "No". So, now you've forced them to say no, and you've tipped your hand. A useful general principle is that you don't want to force people into a situation where they have to say "no", if something is debatable or negotiable. Once battle-lines are drawn, it's harder for anyone to back down. I've spent years war-gaming, but I didn't really get this until I had a toddler.