You’ve done something wrong, but you understand you’ve hurt someone and you’re ready to apologize. Great! However, sometimes a simple “I’m sorry” just isn’t enough. While you might be completely sincere and truly want to make amends, words don’t always do it. If you feel like this is one of those times, back up your apology with actions. This will help stress your contriteness and convince the hurt party that you truly do feel sorry.
What type of actions should you take? There are several. The first action is obviously showing up in person to give your apology. While this might not always be possible (a long-distance phone fight with a sibling, for example, may have to be settled over the phone), the best way of saying your sorry is to do it in person. Don’t send email, a text, or call unless it’s the only way you can get the person to listen to you. Otherwise, it may seem insincere. This is especially true with email and texting since it’s very hard to convey emotion through these media.
Showing up with a gift or two is another good way of backing up your apology. Chocolates, flowers, a stuffed animal or two…all of these are good, smart ways of saying you’re sorry. If it was a serious fight between spouses or long-term partners, jewelry may even be appropriate. The more personal the gift, the better. Just don’t buy something cheap looking.
Finally, you can say you’re sorry with dinner. A fancy restaurant is a good plan, but you can also cook dinner as an apology. Tickets to an event you both enjoy might also be a good option for an apology date. Again, make it personal and make it sincere. Otherwise, you might find yourself in more trouble than you started in!
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