How to say “No” and keep him
Tips for not giving in

Telling your boyfriend that you are not interested in a physically intimate relationship can be tough to do and even harder if you really like him! If you do not want to loose him, but you don’t want to go any further, try some of these suggestions.

Don’t wait until you’ve gone too far
Once you have crossed into hot and heavy territory, it is tough to stop. Decide beforehand how far you’re willing to go.

Keep this a private discussion
Try to not embarrass him in front of his friends. Whatever happens, do not gossip. If you need support from your friends, only talk to people who refuse to gossip.

“I really like you, but…”
• Make sure he knows that you don’t want to lose him.
• Tell him that you think he is great, but tell him that you have made a decision to
   wait until you are married to have sex..

Explain why you want to wait
• Know what you want! Be clear with yourself so that you can be clear with him.
• Tell him about the physical risk associated with sexual activity.
• Share with him why you want to wait.

Keep your message clear
• If you’re going to say no, then mean it!
• Be clear about your boundaries and limits and stick to them.
• Remember, even if you’ve said yes before, you can say no now.

Try other ways to show you care
• There are millions of ways to express your love without having sex.

Don’t loose your cool
• If he doesn’t take it well, don’t argue with him…break up with him.
• Explain that you understand his feelings, but it doesn’t change your decision.
• Stay calm. Take some time to think and talk again.

When he won’t take "no" for an answer
• If he still putting on the pressure, take some time off from your relationship.
• If he loves you, he’ll be back
• If he does not come back, then you know that he cares more about sex than
  about you! You deserve better!
• When all else fails, let him down gently.

Reality Unlimited offers all of our services free of charge supported in part by project No. 1 HID MC 00908 from the Community Based
Abstinence Education Program, MCHB, Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services.