How Many Times Do We Say 'Sorry' Every Day?
By Sandy Schroeder
How many times a day do you hear someone chirp, “Sorry,” as they bang into your grocery cart, grab the last bagel or back into you at the gym? The list of automatic “Sorry” responses is endless. Wherever we go, someone seems to be automatically apologizing for something.
The staff at WellandGood.com understand. In fact they are so aware of it, that they wrote a piece about women and their “complicated relationship" with these apologies.
Saying we are sorry is seldom about being worried that we have harmed someone else. WellandGood.com calls it “a crutch that we use to express all kinds of things that we feel we can’t just come out and say, lest we seem aggressive, or thoughtless, or not good team players.”
How to Break the Habit
So what's the answer?
Never apologize for someone’s carelessness - Instead of apologizing when somebody practically runs you down, say something like, “I’ll bet you didn’t see me. Now you do.”
Never apologize for doing your job - If someone invades your space when you are knee deep in a crucial project, don’t apologize as you suggest they leave. Simply say, ”I am in the middle of my work. Let’s talk later.” If they don’t take the cue to exit, stand up and keep talking as you steer them out of your area.
Never use an apology to join a discussion - Instead of saying, “Sorry,” and then surging ahead with your thoughts, offer a very brief comment that fits the discussion and invites a response. You may have a great idea or really want to offer your opinion, but showing respect for the group is basic. If the topic is a key one for you, consider simply sitting and listening. You can always email, text or call someone in the group later to tell them that you learned a lot, or would like to be included in future discussions.
When We Must Say We Are Sorry
Of course there are times when you will still want to say you are sorry. When someone has lost a loved one, been injured, or is facing a crisis, they will know by the tone of your voice, the quick hug, and the look on your face, that you care very much. Reaching out is what we all do.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.