As a follow up to my post about boundaries, I spotted this today. Useful-ish advise, although I personally don't find that many of these tips particularly empowering. Actually learning to say "no" in an assertive way is an important part of setting and maintaining boundaries.

Ignoring people, smiling and nodding, literally not being there isn't actually saying no. How about experimenting with saying no on some smaller things, see who you go and then once you realise the consequences aren't as bad as you thought they were, you'll have a bit more courage to start saying no on some bigger things. Trying "no...but" can also work well. A friend asks "are you free for a drink this evening" during a crazy week where you've been non-stop and really a night to yourself, try saying "no, not tonight but how about next Tuesday". It can help with that most pointless of feelings - guilt. But more on that one later!