You do Not Have to Continue Apologizing

by Kori Rodley Irons | More from this Blogger

26 Jul 2008 08:11 AM

We all make mistakes. As much as I would like to think that after all this time, when it comes to my work world, that I no longer make silly mistakes or even big and horrendous bloopers-it just is not true. I do make mistakes and there are regular occasions when I need to make apologies too. While it is important to make a sincere and genuine apology, it is also important to remember that you do not have to CONTINUE apologizing over and over again. Say that you are sorry, make amends and let it drop. It is better to move on than to stay in a place of apology. When you continue to apologize, it can make the other person feel additionally uncomfortable and it makes it impossible to move on. It can also cause the customer, client, vendor or whomever to continue to think of you as incompetent or inept. If you have done your very best to make amends for something that was your fault and have apologized, put the issue to rest and forget about it. It is the only way you can move forward. An appropriate apology is all that is necessary.

When I use the word "appropriate" I want to draw attention to the fact that we can over-apologize and we can also make light of something we should be taking more seriously. A casual "I'm sorry" may not be enough for a big mistake that has caused hardship or cost someone a great deal of money. At the same token, an over-the-top apology for a minor little blooper can be inappropriate too. By all means, make apology whenever it is necessary but keep things in perspective and try not to get stuck in a state of apology when it is time to let it go and move on.

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