Why Sometimes It Is Better to Not Apologize
By TOI Staff April 18, 2023 Update on : April 18, 2023
Asking forgiveness from others when you’ve done wrong shows great strength. But some things in life really don’t need an apology. Therefore, never apologize for your playamo bonuses.
1. to yourself
This means that everyone has the right to his/her own opinion, feelings and way of life. As long as you don’t harm anyone and you are happy yourself, your way is the right one. And you don’t have to constantly apologize for quirks or “mistakes” either, because everyone has them. Perfection is boring!
2. for your limits
Especially if you are very helpful and always there for your friends, family and colleagues, you will get a lot of headwind as soon as you say “no”. But let that be their concern, after all, they also consciously set their limits and are not ready for everything.
3. for your me-time
Meeting up with your friends, date night and family dinners on Sundays – having so many great people in your life and meeting them regularly is wonderful. But sometimes you need to recharge your social batteries and get back down. So no “sorry” if you’re ever unavailable and just want time to yourself. Take your space when you need it.
4. for your dreams
One of the best things about the times we live in is that almost all options are open to us. You can shape your career, your travels, your future plans as you wish and dream. And: You are allowed to throw your plans and goals overboard at any time and start over again. There is nothing to apologize for or regret, except what you didn’t do because others wanted you to do it.
5. for your love
Who you love and how you conduct your relationship is between you and your partner. Getting involved is an absolute no-go. Nevertheless, one or the other (parents, grandparents, friends) might do it. Then the rule is: Don’t apologize or justify!
Sorry Not Sorry
5 things you should never apologize for
Asking forgiveness from others when you’ve done wrong shows great strength. But some things in life really don’t need an apology. Therefore, never apologize …
1. to yourself
This means that everyone has the right to his/her own opinion, feelings, and way of life. As long as you don’t harm anyone and you are happy yourself, your way is the right one. And you don’t have to constantly apologize for quirks or “mistakes” either, because everyone has them. Perfection is boring!
2. for your limits
Especially if you are very helpful and always there for your friends, family and colleagues, you will get a lot of headwind as soon as you say “no”. But let that be their concern, after all, they also consciously set their limits and are not ready for everything.
3. for your me-time
Meeting up with your friends, date night and family dinners on Sundays – having so many great people in your life and meeting them regularly is wonderful. But sometimes you need to recharge your social batteries and get back down. So no “sorry” if you’re ever unavailable and just want time to yourself. Take your space when you need it.
4. for your dreams
One of the best things about the times we live in is that almost all options are open to us. You can shape your career, your travels, and your future plans as you wish and dream. And: You are allowed to throw your plans and goals overboard at any time and start over again. There is nothing to apologize for or regret, except what you didn’t do because others wanted you to do it.
5. for your love
Who you love and how you conduct your relationship is between you and your partner. Getting involved is an absolute no-go. Nevertheless, one or the other (parents, grandparents, friends) might do it. Then the rule is: Don’t apologize or justify!
IF YOU DO WANT TO APOLOGIZE
“I’m sorry.” A sentence with which one admits to having made a mistake. But it’s not necessarily always the right phrase to use when apologizing to someone. You should say these 3 phrases more often instead.
It’s a good thing to apologize, right? Right, but sometimes the way you ask for an apology can also be crucial. A “sorry” sometimes just isn’t enough, while an “I’m sorry” sometimes doesn’t come across as assertive. Especially in the workplace, you should therefore consider whether you really need to apologize all the time. In fact, a 2012 study even makes it clear that there are also advantages to not apologizing. These three sentences are then sometimes more appropriate:
- 1. when one has made a mistake:
- “I accept responsibility for this and intend to correct my mistake as follows.”
- 2. when one is late:
- “Thank you for your/your/your patience”.
- 3. When showing compassion:
- Instead of “I’m sorry you’re under so much stress,” say:
“I noticed you have a lot on your plate. Can I help you? Do you need a break?”