“No” is a complete sentence

I’m in my early 20s and I feel like this generation understands that they can’t keep going if someone says “No.” It seems like a lot if people are still acting entitled, even if they aren’t using force. We need to do a better job of teaching how to respond to rejection.

The big issue though is that when I say “No.”, a lot of the time people feel entitled to an explanation. I get why they want one. They’re angry, embarrassed, and confused. Usually, I’m ok with talking about it.

Sometimes, I’m not comfortable talking about it. Almost every time that happens, I get subjected to an interrogation that goes:

But why?

Because I don’t want to.

I know, but why don’t you want to?

I don’t feel comfortable talking about this with you.

(repeat)

When I refuse to give an explanation, that’s the end of the discussion. I am not obligated to justify my decisions to them.

I am tired of being pestered and badgered if I say “No.”

I feel like that’s often being left out of the “No means no” discussion.

Edit: formatting