Think it over If you suspect your partner is going to say they love you, take time to think through your feelings for them and prepare a response ahead of time. This will help ease any awkwardness if you do not love them back or help you fully express yourself if you do. If you don’t love them back (yet) Avoid telling them straight out you don’t love them yet, as that can come off as brash. Instead, focus on the special things you like about them. Examples: “You’re really special to me, James, but I don’t quite feel the same way right now.” “I’m really glad I met you and feel lucky to have you in my life, but I’m not on the same page right now.” If you don’t love them (and probably never will) It takes a lot of courage to tell someone you love them, so stay calm and treat the person with respect while making it clear that you’re not interested. Examples: “I’m flattered, but I’m not looking for love.” “Thank you, I appreciate your bravery and honesty, but I don’t feel the same.” If you don’t love them but want to be friends This can be tricky as there are lots of emotions at play (and losing a friend is never a good outcome), so be gentle but clear about how you feel. Examples: “I’m flattered, Naomi, and think you’re a really special person, but I only see you as a friend.” “I’m flattered and appreciate your friendship, but I just don’t see you that way.”