When we reframe what we’re saying we create room for appreciation of others— and ourselves.

The last time you showed up late to a meeting, picking up your kids, or maybe a night out with someone, what did you say?

Was it “I’m sorry”?

Did you perhaps cite issues of traffic, another meeting running over the scheduled time, or having to work late?

What about the last time you asked for help?

Did you say something along the lines of “I’m sorry to bug you”, “I didn’t want to bother you with this but…”, or “I don’t mean to interrupt your day but I need…?

Okay, so that last isn’t quite so bad. In fact, it’s a fair way to respect another person’s time.

However, think of the last time you apologized. You could even think of the last few times.

Did you focus on what went wrong?

Instead of saying “I’m sorry needed to ask about XYZ” and “Sorry for being late” say “Thank you for waiting on me” and “Thank you for working with me on this issue”.

By reframing how we appreciate the time and efforts of others we can simultaneously improve how they will respect your time and humanness, as well as leave room for negative framing to become rerouted into more positive language (both externally and within our minds). Both of these are things which can bolster confidence within ourselves, as we’ll those we encounter in the workplace or other places in our lives.