Re: How to Tell Someone You Aren't Ready for A Serious Relationship seyfert: I usually begin every conversation with a member of the opposite sex with the disclaimer, "I'm not looking to be anything more than friends. Too much is going in my life to add a relationship."
I wish I would follow my own disclaimer sometimes. :)
But really, being open and honest about it from the start puts everone on the same page and relieves the tension.