A suggestion can be declined thoughtfully without being dismissed personally.

There is a difference between no and never mind you. A proposal turned down with a reason leaves the person who made it knowing they were heard, while a quick brush past leaves them wondering whether the idea or they themselves were the problem. Most people can take rejection of a suggestion easily, but what stings is being waved off.

When you say no to someone’s idea, give it a sentence first. Say what you liked or what makes it unworkable here. It takes ten seconds and it decides whether that person brings you the next thing they think of or keeps it to themselves.