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Apologies...why bother?

An excuse, a lie, or a habit...

Have you ever noticed how easily people can say "I'M SORRY?" Is there any sincerity left? Seriously, how often do you really consider why your apologizing or saying thank you?

Are you on "AUTOPILOT?"

Sorry can be as automatic as "Thank You" and more often than not it has about as much feeling as unlocking the car door, sitting down, inserting the keys into the ignition, and starting the engine.

Personally, I could live without the "I'm Sorry." If you don't have the time, interest, or willingness, just move on. The same thing goes for the polite "Thank you."

Why? Tell me why?

If you really insist on apologizing be clear, share with me why your sorry. If I wasn't on top of your list, then say that. Our agreement was not as important as the thing that you chose to give priority to...wouldn't you agree?

No, that isn't the way it is...

Quick, "OH NO," what should I say. I had a good reason, at least it was for me, now how can I tell the story...?

Yes, I know I am ranting, I will stop...;-) Just do me one "HUGE FAVOR" first:

STOP! Stop telling me your stories!

Think about it for a moment. What kinda of relationship do you want with others? Even more importantly:

What kind of relationship do you want with...

YOURSELF?

If your telling white lies, stretching the truth, or lieing through your teeth, who is it your really lieing to?

Do you really believe your story or excuse matters?

It "SUCKS!" It plain sucks when you take away the stories and the excuses.

"ME," "MYSELF," and "I!"

Suddenly all that is left is "Me," "Myself," and "I!" "I" is something most people really don't want to deal with.

Change your life!

Over the next 30 days pay attention to how often you say "Thank You" or "I'm Sorry." Each time you catch yourself, in the act, ask yourself "WHY?"

Why am I saying this...?
Does it really matter that I am saying this...?
What if I didn't say "Thank You" or "I'm Sorry" in this moment?
Am I sharing why, not a story, I am either "Sorry" or "Thanking" them?

Eamples:

Your help in the last 30 minutes really made a difference in my day, thank you.
Thank you for taking the time to help me.

Consider:

Instead of waiting for a moment, that calls for an apology, to happen, be proactive. If you aren't going to show-up, be on time, or have some other change of plans, let the other person know ahead of time. Make them as important as you are making yourself.

The last minute...

It is rare that you or I have to wait until the last minute to handle a circumstance or situation. By the time we get to that point, we have given so many other things priority that it shouldn't be a surprise, least of all to you, or anyone around you.

What can you change...

...to let people know you really care?

With love,

James

405-521-8609
James at ALifeOfPossibility dot com

  ¶ 10:11 AM