Do you ever find yourself over-apologizing? 🥺

For example, do you apologize for making a perfectly reasonable request at a restaurant?

If this sounds uncomfortably familiar to you, you’re not alone. I’m there often too! 👋🏼

Saying “sorry” too much is a common problem (especially among women). However, over-apologizing all the time could mean you’re essentially saying sorry for your existence! 😨

Over time, this not only undermines your self-worth but also your capacity to have a more fulfilled life. I’ve had to work hard on curbing the “sorries.” 😐

It actually pays to cut back & here are strategies that can help 🏳

🛑 There’s no need to over-apologize when you need clarification, so don’t say “sorry” when you ask questions. Instead, experiment with: “Could you please say a bit more about that for me?” or “Can you please help me understand this better, by using an example?”

🏼Turn Apologies Into Gratitude: next time you feel an apology rising up, think of a way to rephrase it. For example, “I’m sorry you had to run that errand” can easily become “I’m grateful you did me this favor!”

Pause Before Apologizing: Before saying “sorry,” stop and ask yourself this: “Have I actually done anything wrong here?”. If the answer is “no,” do not apologize!

🥰Embrace your imperfections.

You don't have to apologize for having a bad hair day, for spilling on your shirt, or for needing three attempts to parallel park. 🤪

Lastly, if you’re regularly overcome with frequent feelings of guilt or shame, reach out to a mental health professional for support.️💗

If you have any other tips that help please comment below! I’d love to know more. 🧠💗