Try saying something like this instead: "Over time our interests seem to have taken us in different directions. I will always treasure the friendship we shared, but I think it's time for me to move on now." To avoid even more tension, it's usually best to approach a rejection from an "it's not you, it's me" approach.
Just be direct and polite! Try: “I really appreciate your interest and openness, but I'm not able to reciprocate it. I know it may be hard to hear, but I'm not interested in moving forward.”
You can say, “You're a great friend, but I'm not interested in you as a romantic or sexual partner.” If this is an acquaintance or someone you don't know too well, rather than a close friend, you can try something like, “I'm flattered that you like me, but I'm not interested in you in that way.”
If a guy is rejecting you while he obviously likes you, it might be because his mind is wandering to thoughts that he's just not good enough for you; he might wonder why you like him and think that you'll leave him for someone else eventually anyway.
“The nicest thing you can do is be direct and kind,” Kuburic says. Pointing out flaws or faults doesn't help the other person, Brigham adds. Instead, simply explain that you don't have romantic feelings for them and would rather be friends. “You want to be thoughtful in how you approach the situation.
Be genuine and don't try to justify your actions.
Avoid adding “ifs” or “buts” to your apology. Tell him that you're sorry for giving him the wrong idea. Let him know it's not his fault for feeling the way he felt. Keep it short and take ownership for leading him on.
Let the other person know he or she matters to you. Think about the qualities you want to show toward the other person — like honesty, kindness, sensitivity, respect, and caring. Be honest — but not brutal. Tell the other person the things that attracted you in the first place, and what you like about him or her.
Use “I” statements. Instead of using language describing why you don't want them, try putting the focus on yourself instead. Simple statements such as, “I don't see you that way, I'm sorry” and “I really like you as a person, but I don't feel a connection between us” are easier to digest than “You aren't my type."
"I just don't feel the same way." "That's just the way I feel." "I know the feeling I'm looking for, and I'm just not feeling it here." "I don't think we're a good match for each other, and while I know you might not agree, I hope you can trust that I know what's right for me."
Here are some other signs you're in a situationship: There's been no define-the-relationship (DTR) convo. You're doing girlfriend/boyfriend activities, but you've both stated it's casual. You haven't integrated into each other's lives meaningfully—you haven't met their family, friends, or colleagues.
Be yourself.
Continue dressing the same, talking the same, and liking the same things that you did before the rejection, but also continue your normal activities online. Keep posting things to friends, pictures of yourself, and whatever you used to do before the rejection. Don't ever change yourself for anyone.
Rejection can take a major toll on your self-esteem and often leads to deep emotional wounds and wounds in your spirit that open up doors that cause you to experience other negative emotions, including depression, fear, doubt, isolation, self-pity, suicidal thoughts, people pleasing, double-mindedness, eating disorders ...
You don't like hanging out together anymore.
"You find yourself avoiding them as opposed to prioritizing them, and you don't miss them when you're not together." If you'd rather spend time away from them than with them, it shows that you're happier alone, which isn't what a relationship is about.
Make him feel jealous
Make him think you like someone else. If you go to a party together, don't hesitate to flirt, laugh, joke, and dance with other guys. Make him understand that others like you too and that you can have a great time without him.
Remember the Things You Love About Your Partner
Pay attention to things they do that bring a smile, like their sense of humor or how spontaneous they are. If those traits matter most, plan for more fun together by exploring new activities in an exciting way.
Instead of ghosting, try saying: “I had the best time hanging out with you, I think you're great. I do want to be honest with you though, I feel that we don't have as strong of a connection as I first felt. I think it's best if we end things here. I hope you understand.”
Lack of emotional intimacy can not only lead one or both partners to hide their emotions, but can also make it a struggle for you to involve your partner in your life. This could mean not spending time with each other, not talking much to each other or even not keeping up with each other's lives.
Let him know that you understand that he isn't ready yet. Don't put pressure on him or try to make him fall in love with you. It's better if he comes up with his own decision. While he's taking his time, keep your cool and make sure to take care of yourself.