Sometimes, people-pleasers find it difficult to tell someone "no."  Luckily, Oprah.com has posted an article which provides people with the tools necessary to stand up for themselves. Here's a sample:

(These should appear as graphics on the screen)

How To Say No To…...

"You wouldn't mind ________, would you?"

1 "Actually, I would."


..."You know what I mean?"

2 "Actually, I don't."


...unsolicited advice:

3 "There's an idea!"


...someone you've said yes to in the past:

4 "Yes! (as in, yes to your gut feeling that the right answer is no): "I know I've agreed to ________ in the past, but it only made me feel anxious/uncomfortable/overwhelmed. That's why it's important for me to now say no."

(conan): I've decided to apply some of the "techniques" to my everyday life.

Situation # 1 (DIsplayed as graphics on screen. Items underlined appear blank at first)

"You wouldn't mind removing your foot from my chest, would you?"

"Actually, I would, your Honor."


Situation # 2

"Hey, you probably shouldn't play with those live wires."

"There's an idea."

Situation # 3

"Where's your condom?"

"I know I've agreed to wear a condom in the past, but it only made me feel anxious/uncomfortable/overwhelmed. That's why it's important for me to now say no."