Effective Ways of Saying You’re Sorry
- I’m feeling defensive. When I feel defensive, sometimes I say things I don’t mean.
- I’m not talking to you like you are someone I love. Let me start over because I do love you.
- I know I’m sounding angry, but I’m feeling extremely threatened. Let me take a couple breaths and try again.
- I know you’re feeling harassed. Please bear with me, I will do better for you.
- I’m afraid if I say I’m sorry, you’ll make everything my fault.
- I’m sorry. I think I was using a tone of voice I did not mean.
- I overreacted earlier. We should try that conversation again.
- I guess I haven’t been listening very well. Please give me another chance.
- Please forgive me?
- I know I’ve hurt you. What can I do to help us get happy again?
- I’ve said some mean things. Can I take them back?
- I’m making it sound like it was your entire fault. I know that’s not true.
- I know I sound mad now. I’m sorry and I haven’t stopped loving you.
- I love you, I hate fighting, and I’m sorry for my part in this one!
- I feel lousy about what just happened. Can we just make up?
* Thanks to John DeCore
