Apology, at its core, is not about taking responsibility. It’s not about figuring out who’s right. It’s not for finding solutions (although that can be helpful). The apology is about repairing connections.
The other option is simple — walk away and cut off all future interactions.
No one is immune to error (not even a perfectionist). When humans interact and something goes wrong, the apology builds a bridge that enables us to move forward.
It’s not easy to find the strength and allow yourself to feel vulnerable, but no one said that it was easy. We do it because it’s worth it.
Next time when you give an apology, ask “how can I repair the connection?”
[Why Won’t You Apologize? is a guidebook for anyone seeking to offer a heartfelt apology. Please read this before you apologize.]
