Millennials, Gen Z’s, and the Sorry Culture

Millennials have you ever notice how people say “sorry” all the time.. for things that need no apology? Our words create our reality. The more we unnecessarily apologize, the less confidence we subconsciously show(to ourselves and others).

Here are 9 things I’ve stopped saying at work (and what to say instead):

1. Sorry for rescheduling. → Thanks for being flexible!

2. Sorry to bother you. → Thanks for carving out time.

3. Sorry for venting. → Thanks for listening.

4. Sorry for running late. → Thanks so much for waiting.

5. Sorry I had to take that call. → Thanks for your patience!

6. Sorry for jumping in. → I have an idea that may help.

7. Sorry for the mistake. → Thank for catching that!

8. Sorry, I don’t get it. → Could you repeat that? I just want to be clear.

9. Sorry, does that make sense? → I’m happy to answer any questions!

These reframes are extremely powerful. But how do we build the habit? The first step is awareness.

Ask a friend, loved one, or coworker to interrupt you whenever you do it, with: “Why did you say sorry?” 😏 That’s your cue to rephrase it with a “thank you for…

 The best part? That gratitude will set the tone for the rest of your conversation. 

 

PREs1-TiK4RaT Research Team