How to Say Sorry without using the Word | Apologize with more intent |
Constant use of the word sorry can cloud the path to a solution or feel like a vacant comment. If you find the word itself hollow, here are more effective ways people can demonstrate accountability and sincerity with their words.
Shift away from using the word "Sorry"
Often, a "sorry" centers on an apology without providing context. Switching away from the word sorry shifts the focus back to the person who was inconvenienced and acknowledges the failure that hurt their person.
Instead of saying sorry when you're late offer an apology that thanks them for waiting and for being patient with your failure.
Instead of saying Sorry this is so messy, say you are thankful they are being flexible with your behavior while they get their act together.
The Acknowledgment
If you feel someone is lying to you with their apology, find out if their is some solution to their behavior that they are planning to work on to avoid future failures in behavior such as:
Own the Error: "I see where the oversight happened and I will focus my energy and intention.
The Solution: "I am correcting how I plan to avoid being late.
The Prevention: "To make sure this doesn't happen again, I’ve set a new calendar reminder that syncs with my phone and I will text you if my day is getting hectic."
Impact Statements
An apology feels genuine when the person demonstrates an understanding of why they are apologizing. This moves the interaction from a reflex to an observation which allows the person receiving the apology to acknowledge and accept it.
Example: "I realize that waking up late put extra pressure on you this morning. That wasn't my intention, I was exhausted and needed extra sleep. In the future, if I am exhausted or feeling worn down, I will warn you before I go to sleep."
Summary Table: Better Professional Alternatives
| Situation | Empty "Sorry" | Professional Alternative |
| Missing a deadline | "Sorry, I've been so busy." | "I've been swamped and knew I needed to work on this. I need your help to get back on track. |
| Interrupting | "Sorry, can I just say..." | "I know you do not like interruptions, how would you like me to add information to one of your thoughts without interrupting you during future discussions. |
| Making a mistake | "Omg, so sorry!" | "I appreciate you catching that failure/mistake. I'm more interested in concepts and planning. Can I rely on you to help me in the future with editing and managing the details? |
