Saying sorry are two little words in our vocabulary that are vital to our society, our businesses, marriages, and families, but are seldom used. The phrase, “I’m sorry”, can immediately dry up bitterness and soften hurt feelings. Working on a balanced “YOU” includes being able to admit when you aren’t right.
What’s Stopping Us?
Before we can start saying sorry, we must first figure out why we have trouble saying it. Pride is the main reason. It is human nature, albeit a deplorable one, to want to be right all the time! We have convinced ourselves that we have something to gain, even protect, by being right. It starts early. I have seen it in my kids before they could string sentences together. It’s an innate desire to be right.
Trust me, I’m just as guilty to this characteristic as the next person. I’ve also dealt with people close to me that suffer an extreme case of “right-itis”. I know the negative effects of dealing with someone like this. Recognizing that our pride can hinder the ability to work closely and well with others is the key.
How do We Fix It?
We begin by being humble enough to accept that we aren’t always right and that’s okay. We put others first, ahead of our pride. The more we start saying sorry, the easier it will become. However, I’m not saying we should immediately assume we are wrong in every situation! If there is a mistake made on your end at work, apologize and resolve the issue quickly so resentment doesn’t build. Same thing goes for our family relationships. When an offense is made, even unintended, it is pertinent an apology is extended.
I recently heard a story about a couple who had six adult children. All six are well-rounded adults. Their father was asked, “how did you raise such well-rounded kids?” He replied, “they’ve heard my wife and I apologize to them their whole lives when we made a mistake.”
Saying Sorry
None of us are perfect. We are not the perfect entrepreneur and we certainly are not the perfect parent! Think of the power we carry with us when we learn the ability to apologize. We demonstrate humility to our colleagues and more importantly, to our families. They are the most important investment we need to apologize too.
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About Balance & Harmony 360², Inc.
Owned and operated by Melinda Smith, CPO®, we offer Business Training & Consulting with a Twist! Our sweet spot is working with Entrepreneur’s and their companies to create a productive work environment, happy home, and prosperous you! Our passion is listening to clients goals, thinking through solutions and coming up with creative 360² action plans that address work, home, and you! Love Going to Work Again! Increase Time with Your Family! Get Things Done! Our process is simple and geared toward the professional. You CAN get your LIFE back in BALANCE!
Author, Trainer, Life Organizer®
Melinda Smith, CPO® organizes and executes action plans, training, and consulting. Great referrals are business owners, executives, and companies looking for a long-term sustainable change. Above all, she can help create a more productive work, a happy home, and a prosperous you.
Particularly relevant is the fact that Melinda has worked with companies and individuals for over 20 years. Conducting workshops across the East Coast, they include over 60 cities in 19 states. Equally, essential focus topics include Strategic Thinking, Teambuilding, and Organization. As well as Balance Strategies, Stress Management, and Embracing Change.
After all, Melinda was one of the first 200 in the nation to achieve a Certified Professional Organizer status. Also, she is also a graduate of the Western School of Feng Shui (pronounced feng shway).
Melinda has owned Balance & Harmony 360², Inc., since 2003. She is also the author of The Complete Guide for Balance & Harmony OWL Kit. Also, this kit consists of a book, workbook, and F.O.C.U.S. Journal as well as five products to help organize Work, Home, and You.
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