As flawed, broken people, "I'm sorry" are two of the most important words we will ever hear and speak. Without the possibility of restoring relationships, our lives would be hopeless and tragic. Yet even given the benefits of it, we often resist apologizing. We rationalize our bad behavior, minimize its impacts and convince ourselves that the other person prompted your wrong doing.

In this episode, we discuss why apologies are so important - and so difficult, especially for those of us who struggle to reconcile our imperfections. And for those of us needing help with this skill, we'll offer our best advice for what to do and not to do in mastering the art of apologizing.

SHOW NOTES
1:15 For our black friends, this is our message and commitment to you in response to the killing of George Floyd.

3:45 If you're perfect, then you can stop listening. For everyone else, this is why this episode can be beneficial to you.

5:00 Ever consider apology as a tool for God's restoration for our world? This perspective might help us be motivated to

10:00 Taking responsibility for your bad behavior is key in apologizing, but it might be easier said than done. Listen here for some examples of how effective apologies might sound.

14:10 Hear Robin's example of what not to do and how building an apology habit can strengthen our relationships.

16:00 Are you like Rachel and want to "fix" things in the moment? Or do you need time to process the apology conversation?

18:00 Do you have trouble giving others grace when you have a misunderstanding? This tip is something that can benefit us all.

20:00 An apology without this is completely empty and will probably do more harm than good.

21:45 Here's the one word to avoid if you're serious about apologizing and restoring relationship.

23:00 Not paying attention to this during any conversations, especially apologies, is disadvantaging your effectiveness.

25:30 Is ghosting an acceptable form of apology? NO! How about a text? Or an email?

28:30 Has someone wronged you deeply and owes you an apology that's never come? You're not alone, but you are worthy.

Want to connect with Robin and Rachel?

Get your #TeamMatt bracelet and frequent updates about Matt by signing up at www.RobinMayMinistries.com or by sending an email to [email protected].

Find Rachel and Robin on Instagram here:
https://instagram.com/theproblemwithperfect?igshid=9jvum57yip6l

Connect with Rachel and her life at the loft:
https://instagram.com/rachel__leigh__?igshid=1erbjftzgyje9
https://bat-recorder-sznx.squarespace.com/config/

Email us @[email protected] with your questions or comments about this or any episode.