Apology Cheat Sheet
Apologizing: How do we do it?
1. Don’t lay blame on your friend for what happened.
2. Don’t make excuses for your behaviour. This is about what YOU did. It happened, and that is that.
Just say, “I’m sorry.”
3. Let your friend know how bad you feel for your part in the disagreement.
4. Tell your friend what you wish you would have done instead and what you will do next time.
What if your friend has done something to hurt you, and THEY want to apologize to YOU?
Accepting an Apology: How do we do it?
1. Listen, listen, listen. It is NOT easy to make an apology. Your friend is really trying hard.
2. Don’t bring up the argument again. It’s over. Just listen.
3. Accept the apology. This doesn’t mean you forgive* your friend. It just means you are telling your friend you understand she feels bad about what happened.
*Please understand that forgiveness sometimes takes time. This has to happen with you in your mind and in your heart. Forgiveness can take weeks or months or even years for some people. It depends on the circumstances.
4. Think whether you have something YOU need to apologize for. If so, see above. J