What is a good apology?

Good apologies include a reparation of some kind, either real or symbolic. Maybe you create an opportunity for the person you embarrassed to regain credibility. Or perhaps you admit your mistake to others, too, as a part of the reparation. In many relationships, a hug is a great reparation.

What should you not do when you apologize?

☒ When preparing an verbal apology be sure to avoid any actions that could mistakenly be interpreted as insincerity—bad jokes, rolling your eyes, avoiding eye contact, excessive shuffling or nervous twitching. ☒ Avoid apologizing for the wrong mistake, just because that mistake is easier to fix or forgive.

How do you reject an apology?

If someone were to say “I’m sorry for….” or “I’m asking for your forgiveness about…” you could express gratitude by saying “Thank you for offering your apology and recognizing that this was hurtful to me. I appreciate that you’d like to be forgiven.” This is not the same as accepting an apology or offering forgiveness.

How does a narcissist apologize?

In narcissists’ efforts to avoid blame, they often combine several fake apologies at once, such as in, “I am sorry if I said anything to offend you, but I have strong opinions. Maybe you’re too sensitive” or, “I guess I should tell you I am sorry. But you know I would never deliberately hurt you.

Is it OK not to accept an apology?

If you’ve been wronged, you want to feel as though the apology you receive is genuine. If it’s not, that’s one of those times when you shouldn’t feel as though you’re obligated to accept. ‘ When they’re not sorry and/or it’s not alright, it is perfectly okay to not accept an apology.”