When a friend or classmate offers you something, it can be hard to say no. Prep yourself ahead of time by coming up with one liners you can use in any situation.

Try these:

1. I can’t stay; I’ve got to help my dad with something.
2. That stuff makes me feel sick.
3. It is against my faith.
4. No way. I think you just want me to get in trouble.
5. Thanks, but I already have a drink.
6. I hate the taste.
7. No. I am serious about my sports and that affects my performance.
8. Go ahead if you want to – I just don’t want to.
9. I’ve seen people in my family go overboard, so I won’t ever touch it.

You can also just be honest with your friends:

1. I’m not into that.
2. My dad would kill me if he found out.
3. I don’t have time for smoking / alcohol.
4. I’d be suspended from the team / group.
5. Forget it. There’s no way I’m going to do that!
6. I’ve got more to do with my life.

Be confident in your answer. Many people who experiment with drugs and smoking do so to feel accepted or popular. By giving a firm “no”, you may influence your friends in a good way.

People tend to follow a strong leader among them, and sometimes all it takes is a positive person that says no to drugs to keep the whole group away from drinking or smoking.