I said sorry for everything… until I noticed
I was the kind of person who’d say “sorry” when YOU bumped into me. I apologized for existing, for speaking, for having needs, even for feeling emotions. It wasn’t until someone close to me pointed it out: “You know you say sorry like, 10 times a conversation, right?” that I really started noticing it.
That moment stung a little, but it was a wake-up call. My over-apologizing wasn’t just a habit. It was how I minimized myself to avoid being rejected, criticized, or misunderstood.
So I challenged myself to start replacing “sorry” with “thank you.” Instead of “sorry I’m late,” I’d say “thanks for waiting.” Instead of “sorry I’m talking too much,” I’d say “thanks for listening.” It felt awkward at first, but slowly, I started to feel more empowered in my words. I still slip up, but now I catch it. I’m not sorry for existing anymore!
#lemon8partner #sorry #peoplepleaser #peoplepleasing #socialanxiety
The habit of over-apologizing often stems from deep-rooted fears of rejection and misunderstanding. Many people adopt this pattern as a coping mechanism, believing that minimizing their presence will keep them safe. When individuals frequently apologize, it can lead to unintended consequences, such as undermining their own self-esteem and inviting a lack of respect from others. By practicing self-awareness and challenging the automatic urge to say 'sorry', individuals can transform their communication style. Replacing apologies with gratitude not only fosters a more positive atmosphere but also enhances personal accountability. Saying 'thank you for your patience' instead of 'sorry for being late' shifts the focus from self-criticism to appreciation, encouraging healthier relationships. Additionally, this practice requires mindful effort and an ongoing commitment to self-improvement. It can be beneficial to set personal goals, track progress, and reflect on interactions to reduce the reliance on apologies. In doing so, individuals cultivate a stronger sense of self-worth and contribute to more empowering conversations.
usually saying sorry is a sign of trauma usually childhood or relationship based