“No” is too abrasive in most situations, but any flavor of “Sorry, it won’t be possible.” is a valid complete response to be processed by the person asking. I

“No” is too abrasive in most situations, but any flavor of “Sorry, it won’t be possible.” is a valid complete response to be processed by the person asking. I am sympathic to author’s argument that you stay there with a valid explanation upon request and start work it out with the other party from there as needed. Clearly stating that something won’t happen is a first important step. It often gets muddied if you start diving into menial details right away. In particular, if as the author states, it’s a conclusion you’ve already reached and the situation will need to change to get to any different outcome. > It is the only thing you need to say when you know you won’t be able to do something no matter how much the other party tries to get you to agree.