4. Refusing offers is an everyday occurrence for most of us, so it is imperative to learn tactfulness and grace. Complimenting somebody’s cooking before refusing more food, for instance, is the proper way to handle the offer off more food. Refusing an offer for a date demands honesty tempered with kindness. You don’t want the other person to harbor any hope for a return of affection. The golden rule always applies when refusing somebody. Treat them the way you would want to be treated.