It is crucial to learn when it is appropriate to relay (and how to relay) a sincere apology. Everybody makes mistakes; yet, unfortunately, not everybody acknowledges when they have performed poorly causing detrimental consequences to another human being.
While it would be ideal to not be a negative source in the lives of the people around you, sometimes it happens. And when it does, it is your job let that person know that you realize what you did was wrong.
Taking responsibility for all of your actions, even the bad ones that you regret, is incredibly important. In doing so, you are displaying empathy for the receiver of your poor choice; you are learning how to be a compassionate, responsible person. You are learning from your mistakes and proving that, while you cannot turn back time to prevent this situation, you have realized that it was wrong and will work harder to keep from repeating the situation.
Sincere apologies do not justify negative behaviors, nor should they be thought of as an excuse for certain actions. Instead, sincere apologies demonstrate your ability to recognize those negative behaviors and reinstall the trust that you may have broken in a relationship.
Apologizing to somebody you have wronged is definitely not an easy thing to do. It takes courage and genuine thoughtfulness to carefully construct an apology. This act can definitely conjure a mesh of conflicting emotions and questions that may be persuading you not to pursue the apology in the first place. What if the recipient doesn't accept it? What if we begin arguing even more? It's so humiliating admitting that I was wrong; what good can come of this anyways? Maybe they will just forget that this ever happened.
However, despite all of the nervous thoughts that may flood your mind and entice you to following through with your apology, it is important to realize that you will feel better afterward. No matter the initial reaction of your recipient, at least you have shown that you are sorry for the action that occurred. Although you cannot take back what happened, you have proven your sincerest regret for inflicting harm; this demonstrates your attempt to create an empathetic connection with the victim while also clearing your conscience. As a result, moving on will become easier for the both of you.
