fogging

when someone is putting pressure on you to do something that you can not, or that is not in your best interest, against your nature, and you would rather not do it. The best way to put up a response is by fogging.

Listen to what the person says, and decide whether or not you wish to comply. If not then using their words, or similar, acknowledge their need but state your case.

In this way you show the person that you have understood their request, but that you are not going to comply.

This method is a very polite method of saying "NO"

I need this- I am sure you do but it is just not possible now.

This is important- Of Course it is important but not as important as...

You should help me- Perhaps I should but right now I have other priorites..

I want it now- I can see why you would want that but my priority is...


by using this technique you are less likely to be manipulated into doing something you would rather not and yet you cannot be accused of recognising the other person's need.