The Magic of a Well-Timely Apology

A few years back I was in the back of an airport shuttle, distracted by e-mails on my phone, when I accidentally elbowed the passenger next to me. Not a hard jab, but enough to knock his drink onto my lap. He jumped up, irritated, only to see me peering at my messages—totally oblivious.

I shut the phone and said, “I’m sorry. I should have been more careful.” I added nothing else. My passenger stared for a moment, then nodded. He looked around the busy shuttle, shrugged, and muttered, “Busier than my day.” I got off at my gate and turned to see him already chatting with a fellow traveler, smiling. That one small apology reset the moment. He didn’t need an explanation, just an acknowledgment and a swift apology.

I’ve never forgotten that quiet exchange. No excuses. No “but.” Just a simple apology letting him know I cared. Since then, I’ve tested it in boardrooms, classrooms, and grocery lines. No matter the setting, “I’m sorry” followed by silence works like a charm.

Every time you slip up—big or small—stop what you’re doing and look the other person in the eye. Say, “I’m sorry. I’ll do better next time,” and then close your mouth. Notice how quickly tension melts away. Try it today, in your next meeting or at home—your silent sincerity will surprise you.