Working in a big city is like having a万能外挂 in the eyes of relatives—everything from introducing jobs, writing proposals for free, to helping with appointments—all requests seem so “smooth.” If it’s successful, it’s taken for granted; if not, it’s because you’re not considerate enough. The polite way I’ve learned to refuse is: first give a vague promise “I’ll ask around for you,” then emphasize the objective difficulty “The process is especially complicated right now,” and finally gracefully throw the problem back “If you know someone over there, we can think of a way together.” Learn to return others’ issues to them instead of using your own time and resources to fill a bottomless pit. Helping others is a gesture of friendship, but protecting your own energy is your duty.