If you remember nothing else, remember this:
1. Keep it simple
2. Keep it short
If you need more of an explanation:
KEEP IT SIMPLE
No matter how complicated the issue is, no matter how much to blame the other person is, no matter how much you think you have a point and reason why you acted the way you did, you will fail if you go there in your apology.
Before you apologize, ask yourself what it was you feel like you did wrong, that you wish you hadn't done, or should have done -- that's the only thing you're going to mention. Do not say you're both to blame. Do not bring up the disagreement or thing that led to you doing the thing you're apologizing for. Keep all that stuff separate, for another time. Just say, "I should not have _____" or "I was out of line when I _____" and then ask for their forgiveness (yes, you must ask for forgiveness). Say it like you mean it. If you don't mean it, don't say it. Then STOP. Leave or get off the phone or close the email or totally change the subject. Keep it simple.
KEEP IT SHORT
If you do the above you don't have to know any more because it will be short. But, in case you somehow think keeping it simple could also include making it long, it doesn't!
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