8 Things Women Need to Stop Apologizing for Right Now [LIST]
Ladies, we really need to stop saying "sorry" all the time, especially if we didn't do anything wrong.
I'm a notorious apologizer and yes, it's typically for things I shouldn't even need to apologize for. For example, every night my husband and I have dinner together on the couch and he doesn't like having the throw pillows on the couch when he eats. Every night he'll come over to the corner of the couch; holding his plate of food in one hand and a drink in the other and he kicks the pillows off the couch, almost like he's annoyed that they're there. So what do I do? Immediately apologize for not moving them for him. Why should I? He knows that he doesn't like the pillows there, so isn't it his responsibility to move them himself? He's perfectly capable, yet I still say "sorry".
If you do the same thing, don't worry, we're in good company. Studies have shown that women are 37% more likely to apologize than men - most of the time for things that we shouldn't be sorry about.
Here are some of the things we should stop apologizing for; immediately.
1. For taking vacation days or sick days. "I'm sorry but I need to take the day off this Friday, would that be ok?" Of course it's ok, they're YOUR vacation days, you earned those days; don't ever be sorry for using them. I know you're worried that people will have to pick up the slack while you're out, but trust me, no one is worried about you doing extra work when they're gone.
2. For not looking like a super model all the time. "Sorry I didn't put any make-up on today." I struggle with this one a lot. A lot of my female morning radio friends look flawless at work every day. They put on make up and cute clothes and really have it together. Most days I show up without make-up and in jeans. Then I remind myself that I'm up at 2:30 am and have an hour commute.If I NEED to look good for something like video or photo shoot, I just bring extra clothes and make-up.
3. For reminding someone to do something they said they'd do. "Sorry, but could you please call the property association about our past due bill from six months ago?" If they told you that they'd do something, it's not up to you to remind them. They said they would do it, so they should.
4. For having an opinion. "I'm sorry, but I think....." Girl, you deserve to be heard and let others know what's on your mind.
5. For not responding to someone immediately. "I'm so sorry for not getting back to you earlier." We all want people in our lives to think that they're a priority and if you don't respond right away then they might get mad at you. Remember, we're all busy and it's OK to put YOU first. If someone needs an immediate response, they'll continue to reach you.
6. For being emotional about something. "I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me." Your a normal human being with feelings; not a robot. It's good to get it out there. Apologizing for being emotional shows weakness; you are not weak.
7. For trying to get a sale person or server's attention. "Sorry, but can I get the check?" You see how busy they are and you don't want to bother them while they're fetching drinks but remember, they're there to serve you.
8. For ordering "just" a diet soda. "Sorry, can I just have a Diet Coke?" We often times don't want to inconvenience someone over a $2 soft drink but we don't always have money for the $14 fancy martini.
Here's a thought. Is there anything that we do that we don't apologize for but should?