How to Apologize
All of us make mistakes that can completely change or alter our relationships and friendships with other people. Apologies do not come easy, especially if whatever you did was very offensive or hurtful. Here are some ways to help you say “Sorry” in the most heartfelt and sincere way, and get your relationships and friendships back on track.
Should You Apologize?
An apology may seem to be the high ground to take, but you need to consider whether or not your apology is necessary. Not all people take to apologies kindly, or would accept your apology the moment you make it. You should seriously consider saying sorry if:
If you know you did it. You have to take a step back and evaluate the situation, and see if you’re at fault. If you know you made the mistake, or if you’re partly responsible for whatever wrong that happened, you should apologize.
If you know the friendship is worth it. Saying “sorry” is like the soothing balm that heals relationships and friendships. Even if you know you are not at fault, an apology can put your friendship or relationship back to the straight and narrow.
If you find it in your heart to seek forgiveness. Pride and self-worth is often all that stands between an apology and a broken friendship. If you know you can let go of your own pride and say sorry, then an apology should be in the works.
Saying “Sorry”
One “sorry” is enough. Profuse apologies made every day will only seem like you’re forcing yourself to apologize.
Don’t push it. Not all people will accept an apology, and would rather forget what happened than to keep the relationship alive because of an apology and a promise. If your friend won’t accept the apology but still treats you as a friend, it’s best to move on and forget that one bad thing ever happened.
Give a gift. If “sorry” seems to be the hardest word, then a gift or a token to make up for whatever mistake you made should be enough for an apology. While it does not have the same effect as a heartfelt, personal, face-to-face apology, it’s better to do so if you find yourself at a loss for words.
Be sincere. A half-hearted apology is always easy to detect. When you say “sorry,” make sure you mean every syllable of it and that it comes from the heart. You do not have to be so emotional or dramatic about it, but you should be open and honest enoughto apologize sincerely and honestly.
Apologies are not easy to make, and will take your pride and ego away from you. With these tips to help you say “sorry,” your apology will be accepted and you can move on with your lives as best as you can.