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We live in an over apologetic world. How many times a day do you catch yourself apologizing? One woman in New York tracked the number of times she uttered “I’m sorry” and counted 12 in just a three-day period — and that was on a good week!
There is good in apologizing when you have truly done something wrong. It mends fences and helps show your willingness to learn from your mistakes. All too often, though, we apologize for the slightest inconvenience we cause someone else.
Read through this list of things you should never apologize for, and stand proud in being who YOU were created to be. Don’t be afraid to choose your own happiness.
- Being You
In case you don’t remember, it was Dr. Seuss who said, “Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you.” Each person on Earth was created as an original. Don’t be sorry for being your authentic self. I’ve known several people who were terrified to start their new job because the previous employee was beloved and appreciated. You know what happened? The new person contributed great ideas and improved the workplace because THEY were full of new knowledge and suggestions. Everyone brings something different to the table.
- Being Different
It’s easy to be like everyone else these days. Social media encourages it. Retailers encourage it. TV encourages it. It’s more of a challenge to be unique, to be your own person. Don’t be sorry for not being like everyone else. The best ideas and inventions were created by those who thought outside of the box. Let your differences fuel your spirit.
- Being Right
In a world where opinion is often regarded as fact, facts are often deemed meaningless. When you’re right, and you know you’re right, don’t be afraid to fight for it. And don’t be sorry when you prove you were right. Never apologize when facts and logic are on your side.
- Being Happy
You are allowed to be happy when others are not. You are allowed to be happy and sad at the same time. You are allowed to be happy while you empathize with loved ones. The good things in our life shouldn’t be diminished because others are jealous or unhappy with their own lives. Don’t feel bad because your life is full of joy.
- Being Imperfect
There’s no reason to hold yourself to a standard you wouldn’t expect of anyone else. Everyone has flaws and moments they wish they could do over. Sure, you can (and should) apologize for causing someone else hurt. But don’t let the regret linger, and don’t dwell on your imperfections. You’ll forever feel sorry if you only focus on your flaws.
- Being Successful At Work
Don’t even START to be sorry for killing it at work! Celebrate yourself and your success! Your work is lucky to have you. Your coworkers are lucky to work with you. And you worked your tail off to make it where you are. If anyone expects you to apologize for killing it at work, they’re 100% jealous of where you are. Be proud of all you’re accomplishing.
- Being Honest
Telling someone the truth can feel like a sting for everyone involved, but don’t be sorry for being honest. The world has enough people in it who twist the truth for their gain or simply to avoid conflict. Honesty is a rare and treasured quality, you shouldn’t apologize for it.
- Needing And Asking For Help
Repeat after me: needing help is NOT a weakness. There is strength in realizing that you could better achieve a goal with support from others. Asking for help reflects wisdom, maturity, and clarity. Don’t listen to those who tell you otherwise or treat your request like a burden. Most people will view your request for help as an honor.
- Needing Some Time Alone
Thankfully the world is coming around to the idea of extroverts and introverts, recognizing that some people need alone time to recharge. However, you don’t have to be a self-proclaimed introvert to need some time alone. You can love your partner or your child or your roommate and still need some time for YOU. Sometimes we just need a break away from everyone else, and that’s nothing to be sorry about.
- Needing To Do Nothing Or Take A Break
You want to lounge on the couch and chill in your Snuggie? Have at it! You matter because of your worth, not because of your work. You don’t have to be constantly accomplishing one task after another. Let the shame go, and allow yourself to relax and turn your mind off now and then. Invest time in regaining your peace of mind.
- Your Feelings
Never let anyone gaslight you into thinking that your feelings are not valid and not worthy. It’s not always okay to act on those feelings, but all feelings matter and are rooted in something important to you.
- Your Body
Your body has done amazing things. It has sustained your life thus far. It’s done things like survive traumas, run marathons, travel the world, give birth, and dance on tables. You don’t have to be sorry that your body is proof of a life well-lived.
- Following Your Dreams
Every single person on the planet is worthy of success and happiness. You are no different. Your dreams define what success and happiness look like to you. Don’t sacrifice your dreams in order to please everyone else around you. The worst feeling of all would be sacrificing your goals to avoid inconveniencing anyone else.
- Choosing What You Think Is Best For Your Life
You are never going to make everyone with your life. Someone will disagree, someone will disapprove, and those who do will often make sure you know how they feel. Ignore them. Only YOU can decide what’s best for your life because only you are there from beginning to end.
- Speaking Your Mind
Don’t minimize the value of your own opinions. Yes, show kindness with your words, but don’t apologize for sharing what you think. Having an unpopular opinion doesn’t make you wrong. Whether it’s choosing a restaurant or simply speaking up in a conversation, speak your mind without feeling apologetic later on.
- Saying “No”, No Explanation Or Excuse Necessary
“No.” is always a complete sentence. You don’t have to be sorry for protecting your time, emotions, and mental energy. No one else is looking out for you as much as you are. Stop feeling sorry for doing so.
- Removing Someone From Your Life Or Setting Boundaries
You know who wants you to feel guilty for setting boundaries? The people who benefit from your lack of boundaries. Set limits at work and in all of your relationships. Those who can’t respect the boundaries aren’t worth keeping around. It’s 2021— time to stop tolerating toxic people.
Stop Saying Sorry, And Start Thanking People
The next time you’re tempted to apologize, spin the conversation around. Instead of saying, “No, I’m sorry, I can’t do that,” try, “No, but I appreciate you asking me. Thanks for understanding.” Pin any negative emotions on the other person and walk away knowing you’ve made the best choice for yourself. You should never apologize for choosing your own happiness.
What do YOU need to stop apologizing for? Let us know in the comments below!
