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ScriptRelationshipsBoundaries1 minute read

Apologising well

What makes an apology land, and what makes it worse.

A good apology can repair a lot. A bad one can make things worse.

A good apology includes

  • What you did, named clearly
  • That you understand the impact
  • What you will do differently
  • No excuses attached

Example

"I am sorry I shouted at you in front of your friends. It embarrassed you and it was disrespectful. Next time I am angry, I will wait until we are alone and calm."

Things that weaken an apology

  • "I am sorry if you were offended."
  • "I am sorry, but you started it."
  • Apologising over and over without changing anything

Accepting an apology

You are allowed to accept an apology without being ready to forget. Trust can come later.

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