When things do not go our way while interacting with others, we often end up in a bad mood and become angry. If we are being mindful and realize what is happening while there is still time to recoup, we can try something different.
When we have done something wrong, we can say “I’m sorry.” I realize that this sounds simplistic, but think about it. How often do we say we’re sorry? And mean it. Maybe we just say “Sorry.” Very noncommittal. Not to mention unclear. Does it mean we’re sorry or that the other person should be sorry? While “sorry” is better than nothing, it lacks the spoken ownership and our regret for our having done something wrong.
Hopefully, our realization of having behaved badly will lead to our wanting to improve what has just become an upsetting situation for all involved. An often difficult, but more useful alternative than justifying our actions, is available.
Look the other person in the eye, speak clearly, and say sincerely “I’m sorry.”