🤝 Saying sorry and making up
🔵 Wellness practice
Every close relationship has arguments. What builds trust is how we repair afterwards.
Wait until both of you are calmer. Twenty minutes or a night's sleep can help.
Say what you did, without 'but': 'I'm sorry I shouted at you.'
Ask how it felt for them and listen without defending yourself.
'Next time I'll take a break before I speak.' Then do it, so trust can grow.
Real-life example
Kabir forgot his friend's birthday and laughed it off. Later he says: 'I'm sorry I forgot and then joked about it. That wasn't fair. Can I take you for chai this week?'
A common mistake
'Sorry, but you…' The 'but' cancels the apology. Keep the sorry about your own actions.
Try the activity
Practise rewriting a harsh sentence more respectfully.
Quick recap
- Cool down
- Own your part, no 'but'
- Listen, agree a step
Respectful disagreement is normal. Threats, control or violence are not; see Healthy and unhealthy relationships.