Hi

Want to say no without making it a whole thing? Try this:

“Here’s what we’d need to pause to get that done by then. Want to trade?”

You’re not refusing, but inviting a decision.

And they get to choose, which makes it easier for both of you.

Cheers,

Yordan

PS: If you want a full set of phrases like this, they’re in The Data Leader's Influence System.