Apology

Saying sorry is harder for some than others.  Knowing logically that you are not perfect is the easy part.  The hard part is owning it face to face.  

Sometimes it’s a misunderstanding.  Maybe your intention was positive but it was hurtful to the other person despite your motive.  Within the scope of apology, the motive doesn’t really matter much.  

A simple “sorry” with no explanation is the starting point.  Allow it to sink in on the other side.  Allow them to metabolize it without a bunch of nervous chatter.  An explanation, rationalization, or excuse dulls the ownership and undermines the apology.  At that point you’re making it about you instead of them.

Yesterday, I received an eye to eye apology with nothing extra.  It took courage and we knew it.  It drew me closer to the other person.  

It reminded me to do the same.

Parting Thought: If you use “but” within a half mile of your apology…It’s not an apology.