5 apology scripts to quickly turn things around

Dear friend, 

 

We've all been there—something slips out of our mouth so quickly that we immediately wish we could take it back. But the damage is already done. Here's the strange part: even when we know we were wrong and truly regret what we said, we often don't apologize right away. Instead, we dig our heels in. We double down, choosing to "die on that hill" rather than make ourselves vulnerable and simply say, "I'm really, really sorry."

 

Here are 5 scripts to help you take the high road and turn things around immediately.

 

1. Wow, that was not okay of me. I know I can't undo what I said, but I want to acknowledge that I regret it and I'm so sorry for letting my temper get the best of me. That was unfair to you.

 

2. The way I said that wasn't fair or appropriate. I'd like to try again and express what I was feeling in a more productive way—are you open to hearing it?

 

3. I just messed up. I used my words as a distraction from the real issue, and I'm so sorry for hurting you. How can I make it right?

 

4. I didn't mean what I just said. I'm really disappointed in myself for reacting before thinking about how hurtful those words were. I need to take a breather to collect myself and be more respectful. I'm so sorry—can we come back to this in a few minutes?

 

5. You didn't deserve that. I was speaking from a place of raw reaction instead of thoughtfulness and intention. Are you okay? I'd like to take it back and say something different if you're willing to hear me out.