No one is perfect, so let’s talk about apologies.
We have all been on the receiving side of a flip, insincere apology…and well, it just feels crummy to be apologized to in that way.
We’ve all had to give an apology and while our hearts might be in the right place, apologizing can just feel…really hard!
But it doesn’t have to be hard.
Take a few minutes to brush up on the steps to apologizing in a genuine, heartfelt way. This is an important skill to teach your kids!
To help you, I’ve created a free printable for you, How-To Apologize Guide with a family discussion activity.
>>Click here and I’ll send it to you right away!<<
The steps to delivering a genuine and heartfelt apology:
- Take time to think through what you’d like to say and convey in your apology.
- Use good eye contact.
- Take responsibility for your actions. For example, “I’m so sorry I was inconsiderate and arrived so late to pick you up.” Don’t make excuses part of your apology (traffic, misplaced keys, etc.).
- Avoid using the word ‘but” in your apology. This is a common mistake. Using “but” cancels out your apology. “I apologize for forgetting your birthday, but I’ve been really busy”…this is not a good apology.
- Explain how you plan to be sure the situation doesn’t happen again. For example, “From now on I’ll leave ten minutes earlier and I’ll set my phone alarm to remind me to leave the house on time.”
- Do what it takes to make things right. For example, if you need to repair or replace something than do so. If you think a follow up handwritten note is needed, then send one.
- Ask if there’s anything more you can do to make things better between you and the person you’re apologizing to.
A little reminder:
Give yourself grace and remember that no one is perfect. We all make mistakes and it’s how we handle those mistakes that shape our character and relationships.
Get your free How-To Apologize Guide with a family discussion activity. >>Click here and I’ll send it to you right away!<<
