I wouldn’t consider myself a master at persuasion. I’m always willing to share my opinion on a matter, solicited or not, but if someone is convinced that their way is the only way, there’s very little I can do to change their mind. I can’t deceive my way out of a paper bag because everything I’m thinking is written all over my face. 

Just because I know I have difficulty changing people’s minds doesn’t mean that’s the case for everyone. Many people go pedal to the metal to try and get their way and won’t stop even when it’s clear that the answer is, and has always been, no. One of my friends has an acquaintance who has been trying to get with her for 3 years and won’t take no for an answer. It’s one thing to pine for years silently, but to keep asking and expecting a different answer is the definition of insanity.