Knowing When You are Wrong

I have been wrong many times in my life. I think the most powerful skill, is knowing when you are wrong and putting pride aside to admit when that is the case.

The words " I'm sorry" and "I was wrong" are the hardest to utter in a friendship or relationship. It is so easy to blame and point the finger at someone else just to spare yourself but your actions lead to reactions and this can create a spiraling issue. This can also be with actions. I never realized the true power of this until this past year. I learned to apologize, to admit when I was at fault and swallow my pride. The trouble is, that in this broken world we live, not everyone is capable. I still by no means, have mastered this skill, but when you are pushed down and blamed, it teaches you that pride is not a trait worth having.

So I am going to break down some ways to make saying those words a little easier.

- Look at the facts and your actions. What did you do? What did you say? Did you consider the other individuals perspective, actions or feeling? Look beyond yourself and what you want; can you see how what was said or done could have garnered the reaction?

- It is so easy to look at your side but consider their side too. Did you overlook a kind action? Did you dismiss how they were telling you their feelings? Were you ignoring what they were saying altogether, because only your side was important?

So much of this issue is reaction. I am not going to say take 10 seconds before you talk, if I had my way I would take a couple hours sometimes. Do what feels right for you. But remember, do not go on the defense, do not assume they were out to hurt or insult you. What I have learned many times is that saying sorry or admitting you were wrong, is often something that both parties need to do. Not everyone will feel that way, but remember that the ability to apologize, not only stops pride from ruining your life but also demonstrates maturity. I have met many people unable to apologize, even if it's the Canadian thing to do; do not allow those individuals to pull you down. Also do not allow the inability of other to apologize to fester or bother you, it is not worth your time and energy to give others that power.