I have a tendency to over-apologize. I am the person who will say "I'm sorry," to someone in public if they get in my way and it's entirely their fault. For me, it's a way my anxiety manifests, but many do it for a bunch of different reasons.
It's pretty draining to do this all of the time since apologizing is bringing focus to negativity, so lately I've been trying to turn my apologies into gratitude. Here are some things that I (and others) tend to apologize for and things you what you can say instead.
"I'm sorry I'm late."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for waiting on me."
"I'm sorry I didn't understand."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for making it clearer."
"I'm sorry I've been needy."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for being supportive."
"I'm sorry I've been withdrawn."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for giving me space."
"I'm sorry to ask another favor."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for helping me out."
"I'm sorry for being emotional."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for listening to me."
"I'm sorry I made a mistake."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for helping me improve."
"I'm sorry I can't come tonight."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for the invitation."
"I'm sorry for being so sensitive."
GiphyInstead, try saying, "Thank you for being accepting of me."