How do I avoid leading someone on?
Use direct language and avoid future promises you cannot keep.
dating
Be honest without leading them on.
If you are not ready, honesty prevents mixed signals and protects both people.
Ready-to-send scripts
StandardI am not ready for a relationship, so I am stepping back.
I cannot give this what it deserves right now.
I want to be clear: I am not available for commitment at this time.
If they push back
- My answer is not changing right now.
- Please respect this boundary.
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FAQs
Should I keep casual contact?
Only if expectations are fully aligned. If not, distance is kinder.
Can I be kind and final at the same time?
Yes. Kind tone and clear final wording work together.
What if they ask me to try anyway?
Repeat your readiness boundary once and hold it.
Can I use this message in a phone call instead of text?
Yes. Keep the same core point and shorten it to one or two clear sentences for spoken delivery.
When should I switch to a firmer tone?
Use firm tone after your boundary has been stated clearly and is still ignored. Repeat once, then follow through.
Need deeper support?
These third-party resources can help with communication skills and emotional boundaries.
Boundary Skills Mini Course
Short practical lessons on calm, respectful boundary communication.
View courseCommunication Workbook
Guided prompts for hard conversations without guilt spirals.
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