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Ouch. You don't want to burn a bridge. You want to say sorry. You want to read on.

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EditSteps

  1. Apologize After a Dispute Step 1.jpg
    1
    Attempt to apologize face-to-face. Try something simple, like, "I'm really sorry about what I said (or did). I didn't mean to be so mean. Can you please forgive me?"
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  2. Apologize After a Dispute Step 2.jpg
    2
    Try leaving a note by mailing one. Also, you can use this method to break the ice a bit.
  3. Apologize After a Dispute Step 3.jpg
    3
    Call him/her on the phone and apologize. Be sincere! Don't just lie and say you're sorry!
  4. Apologize After a Dispute Step 4.jpg
    4
    Attempt to resolve the problem. Don't say, "I'm sorry that I used your toothbrush," and then use it again.
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EditTips

  • Be careful about just saying, "sorry". Be sincere, and really explain how you are sorry. Try to add in something like, "I regret ...".
  • If this is built up over time (a long-lasting problem that has just exploded), offer ways to solve it. For example, "I won't use your toothbrush again".

EditWarnings

  • Be honest. Don't apologize unless you mean it.
  • Don't lie to make him/her feel better.
  • Don't blame him/her.
  • Don't make anyone do it for you. This makes your apology much less sincere.

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Article Info

Categories: Managing Conflict and Difficult Interactions

Recent edits by: Jason, Livorde, Anson S

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 7,520 times.

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