Asking for advice;
How do I say no to seeing my parents (they want to meet up every weekend, and it’s terrible for my emotional health and my free time)?
Like if I say no to Saturday they’ll ask about Sunday. Trying to keep time down for each visit can help (my folks can and do keep me for 4-10 hours at a stretch), but I’m trying to figure out how to say “I don’t want to/don’t have resources to meet up this weekend” other than lying, having real stuff to do, or simply not answering the phone.
@Ylfingr unfortunately, that would work only with someone who has relatively good boundaries.
@Leucrotta I'd be inclined to go with the simplest option - say you'd rather not this weekend. Even if you don't have specific plans, there's nothing wrong in simply wanting to chill, or even just take care of little stuff.
@porsupah i think I will go with I have plans unless really pushed to explain what those plans are (“chill out after working on my taxes” and “work on my hobby” are things an adult legitimately needs to do). I think if I set time to see them that might help.
@Leucrotta plan something very far out
@Leucrotta just say, "I don't want to." It's not a lie. If they ask why, just say "I don't want to" again. If they ask, what if only two hours/what if we met at places you like/what if we promise to pay for it just say "I don't want to" again. It takes a lot of practice so start now!
@Leucrotta "I'm just not up for it"?