A lot of people normally attach apologizing to weakness, but in the real sense, it is actually an evidence of strength, and one of the greatest proofs of courage. Knowing when you are wrong or when you fall short of expectations and then apologizing is a mark and expression of strength within. This is because it takes a strong heart and a level of maturity for one to recognise their errors and ask for forgiveness. This does not only impact on the person you are apologizing to, but it also makes you a better human. As a matter of fact, when you learn to apologize when you are wrong, it will make you to grow more and feel more connected with people.
It is worthy to note that apologizing does not only end at saying "I am sorry," but it also includes taking responsibility for the consequences of your actions, showing empathy, and above all, effecting a change. No matter how many times you have said sorry, if you have not changed and you keep doing the same thing, then the apology is not worth it. What you do after you have apologized is what shows if you are truly sorry or you said it just to fulfill all righteousness. When you sincerely apologize and mean it from your heart, then it should show in your actions.
You will be surprised how a sincere apology can open unimaginable doors for someone and even strengthen the connection you have with someone. It is not at every point that you will claim right or give excuses for your actions. Just to let you know; no human is without flaw and this also means that they are not immune to shortcomings and errors. But will you try to justify your actions and give excuses for them or will you apologize and make amends? More often than not, it is not just what you do that defines who you are but the corresponding actions to it.
In order to apologize effectively, which also makes you a better person, there are things that you need to have in handy. Firstly, you need to understand that there are some level of sacrifices that have to be made. You may have some very valid reasons why you acted the way you did, or reasons behind your actions, but if you know that it may cost you a friendship, relationships, or your humanity, you can sacrifice your ego and apologize. In addition, you also need a level of humility and humanity in your heart to apologize. Trust me, it may not be too easy, especially when you can justify your actions, but you need to do it, because in the long run, it will be worth it. That you apologized does not mean you have conceded defeat, but it is actually a win for you.
You begin to grow when you realise that you are not perfect and you have flaws, but consciously work towards correcting them and becoming better. If you are not willing to apologize, you may trap yourself in cycles of resentment, blames, and many other emotional challenges. There is a good feeling that comes to the mind and the peace that it brings with it when you apologize for something that you have done and sincerely feel sorry for it. You will agree with me that if you have done something wrong to someone and you refuse to apologize, each time you see them, your heart may skip. But when you have apologized and made amends, your heart will be more at peace.
Just to point out something as a way to conclude; apology is not limited by age or status. Some people may be quick to apologize to their bosses in the office, but if they offend their subordinates, they will never say that they are sorry. Similarly, some parents will find it so difficult or even impossible to apologize to their kids when they know that they are obviously wrong to them. In fact, they will rather make their kids feel guilty than to apologize. It does not matter if you occupy a higher position than the person you are apologizing to, or if you are older than them, but what matters is that you do what is right because it will make you a better person.
Thanks for reading
