How to Improve Relationships

Yup. I was doing a workshop for 60 teachers who were being insanely rude (this had actually been going on for 6 months). I had been up all night with a sick toddler, hadn't eaten all day and it was hot in the room. A group of the teachers decided that the presentation wasn't relevant to them and decided to use the time as a coffee hour, complete with snacks, texting and chatting. I tried all of my "tricks"... moving closer to them, stopping the presentation and staring at them, clearing my throat and asking for their attention. None of it worked, so I said LOUDLY into my wireless mic "Your students are failing and your school may be closed... could you PLEASE try and pay attention!"

So much for professionalism. I did take the opportunity during our next meeting to review our expectations for one another and to revisit the purpose behind our work. I apologized for losing my temper, but didn't make excuses or a big deal about it. Things happen & we're human. Apologize for speaking before thinking and go on with business as usual!

It's part of relationships, I think. Just go to them and say something like, "You know, I said something to you that I think could have been taken the wrong way. I just wanted to let you know that I am sorry, and I didn't mean it that way." Usually the person will be surprised (didn't even phase them), or thankful (they wondered about it). Usually this type of apology will actually build a closeness in a relationship because it shows that you really do care about what they think and that you are mindful of the importance of their friendship. And, it shows great humility and care for them. I love that in my friends!!

I think we have all done that at least once. The only thing you can do is humbly appoligize with out makeing an excuss as to why you said it, and the rest is up to the other person. J.

Yes I'm sure that has happened to all of us. I wouldn't hesitate to just go up to that person and say "I'm SO sorry I said XYZ! I really do not have a good excuse so if you want to slap me, I will understand!" Stuff like that will usually get them to soften up and laugh. Then sincerely apologize and explain what you said and why.