HOW TO APOLOGISE

So what are the key ingredients for a proper apology? According to research conducted by Ohio State University, a satisfyingly heartfelt apology contains six elements:

1 Expressing regret

2 Describing what went wrong

3 Taking responsibility

4 Being repentant about the hurt caused

5 Offering to make amends

6 Asking for forgiveness.

While the best apologies contain all of these elements, the most important steps are taking responsibility, followed by an offer of making amends (after all, actions speak louder than words). The least useful step is asking for forgiveness, which places the burden for ending the disagreement back on the victim. The overall lesson? Acknowledge fault and swiftly follow up promises with reparative actions.