As Hannah Montana once said, "nobody's perfect." Although it's an early 2000s kids television show quote, it couldn't be more true. No one is perfect; we are human and humans make mistakes. The most important thing to remember is that the mistakes you make don't have to define who you are. Of course, if you act mindlessly and don't make up for your wrongdoings only to continue with the same mistakes, then your mistakes will begin to define you.
Everyone is entitled to one or two major mess up moments. Although when they occur it will seem as if the world is at an end, in time things will begin to resolve themselves. The first step in recovering from a mistake is apologizing; you can never say sorry enough, but you have to mean it. No one wants a half-assed apology that sounds like it was forced. Only apologize if you are truly sorry for what you've done and feel remorse. After you have taken this step, you need to try and make up for what you've done. Be there when people need you, offer help and advice. It's the little things that bring out your true character that will help people see that you've changed.
You have to accept that some people may take longer than others, and some may never come around. Those who truly know you will forgive you in time. When you make mistakes you have to deal with the repercussions, but that doesn't mean your life has to be over. Remember that what you did doesn't make you who you are, and you can move past it. Being honest and true is the only way you can do that.
We all make mistakes, but they don't make you. Don't let one slip up define your entire life. You are more than your mistakes.
