Alternative Ways To Say I’m Sorry

One of the hardest things in life is to admit that we made a mistake.

I don’t know why that is, but people will go through amazing lengths to avoid having to say these two words – I’m sorry.

Often, it’s all that is necessary to restart the communication process.  So if you have difficulty choking on those two words, here are some alternative and effective ways:

  1. Admit the mistake sincerely and briefly describe what you are specifically sorry for.  Often the person on the receiving end prefers this to the words “I’m sorry” because it is a standup way to say what you’re sorry for.
  2. Make it up to the person you’ve hurt or wronged first and when you see the positive response, the words “I’m sorry” may not be so difficult.
  3. Say you’re sorry by listening.  Often those we’ve offended simply want to be heard.  Once we make a sincere attempt to hear the other person, the right words will flow.

“An apology is the superglue of life.  It can repair just about anything”  — Lynn Johnston

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