Ten Characteristics of a Great Apology

A great apology can be a powerful agent for healing, both for the person you harmed and your relationship. It's a crucial first step toward rebuilding trust. A lousy apology, on the other hand, can be like pouring acid on an open wound.

To be certain your next apology heals rather than harms, consider these ten characteristics of a great apology. Then, choose your words carefully and let your humility do the talking.

• ​A great apology fully acknowledges all wrongdoing.

• A great apology empathizes with the offended person.
• A great apology gives priority to the good of the offended person over self.
• A great apology rejects excuses and avoids defensiveness.
• A great apology refuses to presume upon grace.
• A great apology places no expectations on the offended person.
• A great apology accompanies restitution, when possible.
• A great apology strives to heal the offended person’s injuries.
• ​A great apology embraces humility.