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Why Sorry Is the Hardest Word

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tuesday

Apologies are fundamental to human relationships. They mend broken bonds, restore trust, and demonstrate emotional intelligence. Yet, despite their significance, saying "sorry" can be incredibly difficult.

From personal pride to fear of vulnerability, there are many reasons why apologies do not come easily. Whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or public life, the struggle to apologize highlights deep-seated human tendencies that make "sorry" one of the hardest words to say.

One of the primary reasons people struggle to apologize is the role of ego. Admitting fault requires acknowledging that we were wrong, which can be difficult for many, especially those who equate mistakes with personal failure. In a society that often celebrates confidence and decisiveness, acknowledging a mistake can feel like a blow to one’s self-image.

I remember a time when I gave a rushed, dismissive response to a colleague’s idea in a meeting. Later, I realized my reaction had hurt them, but my ego resisted the idea of apologizing. Wouldn’t admitting I was wrong make me look weak? It took some reflection to understand that acknowledging my mistake would not diminish my

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