Make Amends After a Mistake

Learn how to not just apologize, but actually make amends. Take concrete steps to repair trust and show you're committed to doing better.

Why This Matters

An apology is words. Amends are actions. Making amends shows you're not just sorry—you're committed to doing better. It repairs trust and heals hurts.

The Secret: Actions Speak Louder

Don't just say you're sorry. Show you're sorry. Take concrete steps to make things right.

How to Make Amends

1. Apologize Sincerely

Start with a real apology:

- Take responsibility

- Acknowledge the impact

- Don't make excuses

2. Ask What You Can Do

Ask her: "What can I do to make this right?" or "How can I repair this?"

3. Take Concrete Steps

Do something specific:

- Change your behavior

- Fix what you broke

- Make up for what you did

- Show you're committed to doing better

4. Follow Through

Don't just say you'll do it. Actually do it. And keep doing it.

Examples of Making Amends

If you forgot something important: Apologize, set up systems so it doesn't happen again, make it up to her in a specific way.

If you hurt her feelings: Apologize, understand why it hurt, change your behavior, show you're committed to doing better.

If you broke trust: Apologize, take responsibility, be transparent, show through actions that you're trustworthy.

What Makes Amends Meaningful

They're specific: Not vague promises, but specific actions.

They address the impact: They repair what was broken.

They show commitment: You're not just sorry, you're committed to change.

They're ongoing: You follow through, not just do it once.

Common Mistakes

Just apologizing: Words aren't enough—you need actions.

Making vague promises: Be specific about what you'll do.

Not following through: If you say you'll do it, do it.

-Making it about you:** It's about repairing what you broke, not about you

The Win

You made amends. You took concrete steps to repair trust. She saw you're committed to doing better. That's a win.