One of the toughest things that you can do is admit when you are wrong and apologize. Many people struggle with this. There may be many reasons why this is so hard.

For some people they may feel that it makes them less than the person to whom they are apologizing. I would challenge that thought. It takes a great deal of courage to apologize. So, just by the fact that you are choosing to do so, you are not losing anything. You are gaining. Another challenge is to think about what you are actually saying. You are not saying that you are a terrible human being. You are saying that your actions were not thoughtful or hurtful. You are apologizing for your behavior, not for who you are.

For an apology to be received well, it needs to be heartfelt. Your statement cannot be, “I am sorry you felt that way”. You are not apologizing for your actions with that statement. You are not taking any responsibility. When you apologize, it is important that you apologize for your part.

Be aware of your tone and your body language. If you say that you are sorry in an aggressive manner, then there is nothing real about it. Instead, soften your tone, your stance, your approach. But always keep your head up and be proud of who you are in your core, even if you have made a mistake!