Do you ever find yourself over apologizing? Saying “I’m sorry” for things you really shouldn’t?
Sorry to trouble you.
Sorry I’m not making any sense.
Sorry I’m rambling.
Sorry I’m late.
Sorry.
Sorry.
Sorry.
People do it often and women more than men. Watch this comic look from Amy Schumer.
THE POWER OF WORDS
Words and language possess great power over humanity, either helping or harming others and/or self. Negative language stimulates negative feelings.
Over apologizing perpetuates feelings of shame and guilt and impedes self confidence. Those who lack self-esteem often apologize for everything and push themselves further in to self-shame, which promotes depression.
Likewise, when you over apologize, you discount appreciation for the gift of grace they offer you. Sometimes, “I’m sorry” can make both people feel devalued.
DISCLAIMER
*If you have done something to harm, hurt, or dehumanize someone, be sure to seek forgiveness and repent of your actions. “I’m sorry” is appropriate in such situations. Afterward, the phrase “Thank you for being patient with me while I work on it” protects the honor of each person.
THE TASK
Replace “I’m sorry” with “Thank you!”
Thanks for helping me.
Thanks for understanding.
Thanks for listening.
Thanks for waiting for me.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
So every time you feel the need to say, “I’m sorry” when it is unwarranted, replace it with “Thank you.”
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash