I say 'sorry' a lot. Like, a lot. Yesterday I apologized to a chair that I bumped into, and I constantly apologize to drivers who can't hear me. And there are certainly some things that you should apologize for, such as hurting someone or saying you don't like "This Is Us". But on the other hand, I'm tired of apologizing for things that don't need an apology.
1. Bumping into inanimate objects.
This is something that I've heard a lot of women do. We brush by tables, bump into chairs, and instantly say we're sorry. But here's a shocker: those tables and chairs can't hear us, and they don't care. I know it's a tough habit to break, but from now on I'm making a conscious effort to stop apologizing to things that don't even have the ability to notice.
2. Speaking up.
If I raise my hand in class, there's a 99% chance that the first thing out of my mouth is going to be "Sorry to interrupt, but...". If you accidentally interrupt someone else to ask your question, then a quick 'sorry' is probably warranted. But professors are there to answer our questions. It's literally their job. So when your econ professor is going a mile a minute and you have no idea what she's talking about, don't apologize for putting your hand up and stopping her.
3. Double texting.
4. Needing affection.
I'm a clingy girlfriend sometimes. Sometimes I need a forehead kiss, or a quick hug just to calm me down, or even just a quick text checking in. And I'm done apologizing for this. Affection is a human need, and speaking up when you're in need of some reassurance is absolutely nothing to be sorry for.
5. Taking a break.
Just like we all need affection, we all need study breaks. After seemingly endless hours of cramming, reviewing, and chugging coffee, you need a break. Whether it's a 5-minute walk or a 30-minute Netflix break, stop apologizing for taking care of yourself. And trust me, you'll do better on that exam if you take a break.
6. Eating something unhealthy.
7. Keeping Up With the Kardashians.
I'm not sure when it became uncool to be interested in the Kardashians, but you know what? I'm fascinated by their lives. Of course, I acknowledge that they can be very problematic, and they certainly aren't ideal role models, but damn they're interesting. When my life is overwhelming and frustrating or even just boring, sometimes I like reading the latest Buzzfeed article about Kylie's pregnancy. And I'm not sorry.
8. Not going out.
Yes, sometimes I want to go out to dinner and a movie, or go out on a Friday night and blow off some steam. But sometimes I just need to wear my giant onesie and curl up with Ben and Jerry's and Netflix, and that's a-ok.
9. Wearing sweats.
10. Being busy.
Stop apologizing when you don't have time to get dinner, or can't go home this weekend for your great-aunt's coworker's dog's birthday. College students are overwhelmed, overworked, and not nearly rested enough, so even if you're just taking this weekend as a self-care break, don't apologize.
We all owe apologies sometimes. Maybe you forgot to show up for a pre-planned lunch, or you vomited in your friend's car on the way home from a night out. But next time you bump into a chair, or you decide to wear a giant sweatshirt and leggings to class, don't apologize for taking care of yourself.
