Words or actions borne out of heightened anger can be a dangerous thing. When the waves of anger or frustration recede, many of us realize that our words or actions may have caused more harm than good. If you find yourself in a situation like this, using the aeon-old technique of apologizing may be the best way to make amends.
When we apologize for our wrongdoings, we show others that we value the relationship we have with them and that we are sorry for causing them distress. As a result, apologizing not only helps those who we have hurt, but it helps us to move forward knowing that we have done the right thing.
Use these four steps below as a guide to apologizing:
- Highlight your inappropriate actions and explain why you should not have done so.
- Recognize that you hurt the person and do not make light of their reaction or feelings toward your behaviour.
- Explain in what way you will not repeat your mistake. Be honest and stick to your words.
- Ask for forgiveness. If you sincerely express that you do not want animosity to come between you and the other person, the other person will feel as if you value your relationship with them.
“Apologizing does not always mean you’re wrong and the other person is right. It just means you value your relationship more than your ego” -Mark Matthews
