We often apologize because we worry too much about what others think of us. It’s important to apologize when it’s necessary, of course, but here are a few things you shouldn’t apologize for doing.
Loving Someone
Don’t apologize for loving someone. Celebrate that you can love. In fact, you don’t need to apologize for having feelings or expressing them! There are many people who are afraid to take a chance on love. Don’t apologize…you’re not one of them.
Saying No
Saying no is a way of showing self-respect, maintaining boundaries, and practicing self care. That doesn’t require an apology. If you are unable to do something, not comfortable doing something, or you can’t give something 100 percent, it’s perfectly reasonable to say no.
Imperfections
Your imperfections are what make you unique and should be embraced. You’re “perfectly imperfect” to those who truly love and respect you. You don’t have to apologize for being who you are!
Following Your Dreams
Dreams are what keep us going and striving for more. Don’t apologize for following a dream because there’s no need to. It’s better to follow your dreams rather than living with regrets of not doing so.
Standing Up for Your Beliefs
Your values, morals, ethics, and religious or spiritual beliefs are part of who you are. You don’t have to apologize for them or for standing up for them.
Taking “Me” Time
We all need time to recharge, which is what “me” time is. You need to take care of yourself in order to be successful and happy. Your “me” time should be spent doing things that make you happy and you don’t need to apologize for being happy.
Ending a Toxic Relationship
You don’t have to apologize for recognizing and ending an unhealthy relationship. This takes courage and should be celebrated!
Your Priorities
Don’t allow anyone to make you feel guilty because of your priorities. It’s important to take care of the things that are most important to you. Those who really matter will respect your choices and will not make you feel guilty.
Having High Expectations
You don’t have to apologize for expecting the same from others as you expect from yourself. Expecting the same from others means that you care enough to push them to be their best. However, there is a caveat to this; you should be prepared to be disappointed.
Not Knowing
Have you ever met anyone who truly had all the answers? Don’t apologize for not knowing the answer to something. It’s okay to not know! This is an opportunity for learning and growth.
Telling the Truth
Sometimes the truth hurts, but it must be told. Telling the truth is a sign of strength and being strong is something that you shouldn’t apologize for.
Someone Else
You’re only responsible for your actions and behavior…not anyone else’s. There’s no need for you to apologize for someone else because you’re not responsible for what anyone else does.
It’s important to be true to who you are in order for you to be happy. After all, you’re the only one responsible for your happiness. Apologizing too much can be detrimental to your self-esteem, so only apologize when you make an actual mistake. If you find yourself apologizing or wanting to apologize for these things, you may want to take a look at what is motivating you to feel that way.
Be Well,
Dr. Amanda Itzkoff
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