How to Say I'm Sorry 3 Ways
It can be very difficult to say "I'm sorry" when you have done something wrong or hurt someone's feelings. However, it is vital to say that you're sorry in order to repair the relationship. You can come right out and say the words, "I'm sorry" to the person, but this is not always easy as it takes some humility and can be embarrassing. Still, it's important to get the point across in a way that works for you so you can open the lines of communication again.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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Write a letter to say you are sorry. It's a great way to express yourself and the recipient has the advantage of having the letter to read over and over again. If the recipient is truly hurt, seeing words on paper may reach her and she might forgive you. In your apology letter, you don't have to mention the mistake specifically, but nor should you deny responsibility for it. Simply state that you realize you made a mistake and that it affected her, and state that you would like to make amends and hope to never make the mistake again. You could state that you learned from the mistake and then ask for her forgiveness.
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Show you're sorry with your actions. Actions speak louder than words. A person who is truly sorry will change course and actions will reflect a new attitude. For example, if you damaged another person's property, the best way to say you're sorry is to take action and have the property repaired, if possible, or replaced. This action will be much more appreciated and genuine than simple words.
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Give a gift. Another way to say you're sorry is to give the person a gift. But be careful with this because you don't want to "buy" someone's forgiveness, as it will not be meaningful. The gift you give to say you're sorry should be an inexpensive but special gift that shows how much you really care about the person you have hurt. Flowers are a gift that can be used to say you're sorry, but are a little cliche. So pick your own flowers, such as wildflowers, and put them in a vase that you have decorated yourself. Handmade gifts will really show the recipient that you are truly sorry, because you have exerted yourself in making the gift -- showing that you really do want your apology accepted.
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Tips & Warnings
Apologize as quickly as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it might be to do it or for your recipient to accept it.
If you apologize, make sure that it is genuine. Only do it because you really want to save the relationship and because you really feel bad for hurting the person. Don't do it just to save face.
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References
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