The art of apology and 13 words you shouldn't say after 'sorry'
CTV
Authors discuss their new book, 'Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologies,' which aims to demystify the process of delivering honest apologies.
A new book aims to demystify the process of delivering honest apologies.
Authors Marjorie Ingall and Susan McCarthy have been studying the intricacies of good and bad apologies in news, politics and literature since 2012.
Their new book, Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologies, draws on a deep well of research in sociology, psychology, law, and medicine, breaking down the art of apologizing.
“You have to use the words, ‘I’m sorry’ or I ‘apologize,’” Ingall told CTV’s Your Morning Monday, referring to the first crucial step in any good apology. “Seems obvious. It isn’t. Do not say, ‘I regret.’ That’s about you. Do not say, ‘I’d like to apologize.’ Just do it.”
Ingall added that the next step comes down to specific acknowledgment.
“You can’t just say sorry ‘for the situation,’ or ‘for that regrettable thing last week,’ she explained. “Show that you understand why what you did was harmful.”
Co-author McCarthy told CTV’s Your Morning that it’s important to explain a personal understanding of the impact you caused, and not to make excuses.
