When it comes to apologizing, are you are creature of habit? Are you someone who feels like you should apologize often and a lot? Is it habitual for you to say you’re sorry and to sound apologetic for practically everything you say and do?
In this day and age, it’s become quite a habit to say you’re sorry for every little bit of thing. Yes, we’re talking about a habit that has become so much a part of us without even thinking. Self-consciously, we say “I’m sorry” when we give back the wrong change or when our child or pet causes somewhat of a commotion. Absent-mindedly, we say “I’m sorry” when we bump into someone while busy browsing on our phone or when we step on someone’s toes while hurrying to make it the bus or the train. Most of these we automatically do, without even really looking up to acknowledge the person we’re apologizing to.
There’s a whole lot of difference between saying you’re sorry without even thinking and telling someone you’re sorry and really meaning it. So, on one hand, to look at a person in the eye and mean every word of it does cross this big divide. For such a short, two-word phrase, this heartfelt apology carries so much weight when it comes to lightening a situation, making amends, and repairing a relationship.
On the other hand, are there instances when you shouldn’t have to apologize? Have you ever thought about the things which you shouldn’t be sorry for at all? With these in mind, let’s spell out those things in life which you should never, ever be sorry about.
- For your own personal feelings.
Since you’re only being true to yourself and others, there’s no need to constantly apologize for the way you feel. Rather, it’s how you deal with these emotions, especially those of passion, anger, and fear. Allow yourself to grow into an emotionally intelligent person. Don’t let your feelings rule over your thoughts and govern all your actions and behaviour.
- For falling.
It’s such a cliché, we know, but you shouldn’t regret falling for someone or giving the best of your years and yourself to the people you care. Without ruining it through expectations, time will tell if and how this will be reciprocated in return.
- For your own life choices.
You don’t have to explain yourself to every single person who questions the current situation you’re in or the choices you’ve made in life. After all, it is your life and these decisions were yours to make.
- For split up with someone bad for you.
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try or how much you want to hang on, it needs to end. Whether the situation is toxic or the other party is narcissistic, the bottom line is that these bonds are no longer healthy, happy, and good for you.
- For having a different point of view.
Due to individual differences brought about by culture, tradition, and upbringing, what works for one may not necessarily work for another. Thus, let’s respect the fact that not everyone will have the same perspective in life as we do.
- For setting aside some “me” time.
You should never apologize to anyone for taking care of yourself better and spending time on your own needs. You matter and you are important, too.
- For speaking the truth
You have every right to speak the truth, especially when you did no wrong and it was not your fault. Nonetheless, always check your intentions first, that they’re free from malice, revenge, or ill will. In the end, consider it both wise and humble to apologize for having hurt someone through your words or actions, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
