One of the most difficult lessons in life and leadership is the art of "I'm sorry". Knowing how to express and experience forgiveness is a critical form of leadership. It really is an art form and a leadership essential.
So how do we extend a real apology? I read these three elements of a good apology from Dianna Booher, author of The Voice of Authority. These three apology processes can make a huge difference in your journey. They begin with...
1. Admission of error, guilt, or wrong doing. You accept responsibility for what was said or done and its inappropriateness, inaccuracy, or insensitivity.
2. Specificity. Apologize in specifics. Blanket apologies convey lack of concern of the situation.
3. Amends. Apologizing involves some attempt to make things right or words or gesture of goodwill toward the offended person or group.
Relationships are more critical today than ever. When you find yourself in need, it's not about being right or defending your position. It's about people needing meaningful, long lasting relationships. There are times in our lives when we find ourselves in desperate need of a real relationship. At those moments of crisis or loneliness, we forget about being right, but rather, we long for a relationship that comforts us, encourages us and models for us how to care for others.
May you invest in others and may you build meaningful, lasting relationships as you journey through your life and leadership. The ROI on that investment will be through the roof!
Peace, Chuck
