Page 18 - Seniorstoday June2023
P. 18
Point of View
Say These Things
Instead of “Sorry”
Oftentimes, we say sorry without cause or reason. A reflexive apology can
actually make you appear ingenuine or even under confident, writes
Vinita Alvares Fernandes
The first three words that every parent is in apologising, It’s time to start taking a
a rush to let their children learn —‘Please, different approach to express what you truly
Thank-you, Sorry’. mean and consider a few alternatives to the
We take these words with us through life “I’m sorry” stuck record.
and flippantly use them without knowing Here are a few ways of expressing feelings
the depth or intimacy that goes along with —
the use of these words, often not being able to Show understanding —
differentiate between the use for a personal It’s common to apologise to show sympathy
heartfelt deed or misdeed or business jargon. for another person’s situation but instead
“Im sorry’ rolls off our tongues so smoothly, of saying sorry, try to offer understanding
without the slightest bit of hesitation. or even some validation to create a more
intentionally or unintentionally. While meaningful heart to heart.
showing remorse when you have caused Example: I hear you.
pain is important, there is a big difference
between saying sorry and apologising. Thank you —
Oftentimes, we say sorry without cause or Apologising is for remorse. An earnest
reason. While you may think this reflexive thank you expresses gratitude. Instead of
apology shows respect or empathy, it can instinctively saying sorry, opt for a thank
actually make you appear ingenuine or even you. A genuine “thank you” can be more
under confident. appropriate than an apology in some
If you struggle with chronic over- situations.
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