
It can become so habitual that you apologize even when there’s nothing to apologize for, such as:
- I’m sorry, but I don’t have time to do that.
- I’m sorry, but I need to go.
- Sorry, can you repeat that?
- I’m sorry but I’m not available at that time.
If you don’t have time or you can’t do something, you really don’t need to apologize. I find myself saying things like this all the time. The word sorry seems to just slip out without my being aware of it until after I’ve said it.
Why is it a problem? Well, for a start it can undermine your confidence and authority, making you seem weak and indecisive. It can be a sign of insecurity, stress, anxiety and of being overly self-conscious.
What could you say instead? Here are some more empowering statements:
- I don’t have time to do that. Thank you for understanding.
- I’m not available at that time. (nothing else needed)
- I need to go now, I’ll speak to you again later.
- Would you mind repeating that? I didn’t quite catch it.
Being able to apologize for something is definitely better than someone who refuses to apologize for anything. But stop making yourself wrong by apologizing for things unnecessarily. This is something I continue to work on, and I hope you’ll work on it with me.
Action Step: Begin to catch yourself as you say sorry. Ask yourself if it’s something you really needed to apologize for. Resolve to begin using more empowering statements.
Let this Unstoppable Affirmation support you on your journey:
I release the need to apologize for the way I feel or for things I can’t control. I claim my authority and embrace my power.
Be Unstoppable!
Linda