Chapter 6

In chapter 6, it was described that Shackleton admitted when he made mistakes. I thought this was important whether you are a leader or not, and also that Japanese people are not very good at this. They apologize by word but sometimes the improvement does not follow. Therefore I searched whether if there is a good way or tips for apologizing.

I found a website that mentions the effective tips for apologizing. The following is the summary of the page.

1. Take responsibility for your actions. You only have to say “I’m sorry” when you apologize, not fancy words. It is better when you add the reasons why you are sorry. Furthermore, you should avoid using “but” to make excuses.
2. Acknowledge the repercussions.
   To make your apology more effective, you can use objective repercussions to promise your better acts. Also, you must avoid using “if” (Ex. “I am sorry if you felt offended…”).
3. Ask for forgiveness OR offer redress. Even though you are asking for forgiveness, do not ask straight questions as “Will you forgive me?” Instead, you should say “I wish…”
4. Shut up and let it end. The words that follow your apology makes it ineffective. You must stop talking after making apology.

These were the tips written on the website, and the common factor written on the several websites were that “admit you were wrong” and “feel apology”. I wish they would help you in the situations when you apology someone :)

Here is a link to the site;
http://www.askmen.com/money/body_and_mind_150/177b_better_living.html