How to apologise effectively 101

We aren’t perfect, we all stuff up from time to time. We lose our cool with our partner, gossip about a colleague, forget something, don’t do something and on and on and so forth.

Consequently, intentionally or by accident we hurt people through our behaviour and what we say or sometimes don’t say.

Yet, why is it that the one word that we need to say (to resolve a situation and restore trust) is the hardest to say?

There are a few reasons:

1. Apologising takes courage and puts you in a vulnerable position, leaving you open to attack or blame.

2. You feel embarrassed over your actions and can't bring yourself to face the other person.

3. You may feel you have not done or said anything wrong. While this may be the case, it is still important to reflect on why the other person doesn’t feel the same. You may be missing something that does require an apology or resolution.

My apology tips:

?? Take responsibility and OWN IT!

?? Keep it brief, don’t drag it out, get to the point.

?? Keep the apology all about you. Don’t focus on what the other person did wrong or how they provoked your actions.

?? Once you have apologised LET IT GO!

Better ways to say SORRY:

Instead of saying:?I’m sorry, but...

Try saying:?I’m sorry.

Instead of saying:?I’m sorry you misheard what I said.

Try saying:?I’m sorry for not communicating clearly.

Instead of saying:?I’m sorry you feel like that.

Try saying:?I’m sorry I hurt/upset/disappointed you.

Instead of saying: I’m sorry you took it that way.

Try saying:?I’m sorry for what I said.

I hope you found these quick tips helpful.

Find out more about me and how I can support you here: https://www.headquarterscounsellingservices.com.au/