Accepting and Giving Apologies

We've all been in a situation where apologies have been exchanged...sometimes we're on the receiving end and other times we owe an apology to someone else.  When someone apologizes to us, it can be really easy to say "It's OK."  But, if they owe you an apology, it's for something that isn't OK.  So instead of relying on that standard response, try thanking the person for apologizing.  

In cases where we're the ones doing the apologizing, try also thanking the person for a trait or quality you admire.  For example, instead of just apologizing for being late to a meeting, thank your colleagues for their patience and understanding.  These same tips also apply to young people, who may just be learning the art of the apology!

Read more about making authentic apologies in this Psychology Today article by Joseph Burgo, Ph.D.