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Only the strong survive. DUI - Stop Yourself. Stop a Friend.
 
 

Develop Your Refusal Skills

It is never easy to turn down something that seems tempting. Here are tips that will make it easier; the more you practice them, the easier they will get. Here 's how to practice refusal skills:

1. Give a reason for saying “No.”

Be honest. Honest answers are more easily accepted by others. Some reasons might be:

“I want to keep a clear head.”

“I could get suspended from the team.”

“I don 't use alcohol or other drugs.”

2. Use the right body language.

Your body language has to match your words. Make sure there are no mixed messages. Be firm, not wishy-washy. Make eye contact, stand up tall, and use a firm voice. Don 't look at the ground, glance away, speak softly, or show you are nervous.

3. Show your concern for others.

Express your concern for those trying to persuade you. In the case of friends who have decided to drink, you might say things like:

“I 'd be really sad if anything happened to you.”

“What would your parents do if they found out you were drinking?”

4. Suggest something else.

Try to persuade your friends to do something fun that 's safer or more healthy. Here are some suggestions:

“Let 's go out in back and play volleyball.” (or some other sport)

“I 'd rather dance and eat something. I 'm starved.”

5. Take action.

If your friends still try to talk you into doing something you don 't want to, just leave. That way they 'll know you are not going to change your mind.