We’ve all been there – apologizing for things that don’t actually require an apology. “Sorry for bothering you” (when you are literally just asking a question), “Sorry for the mess” (in your own home, that you live in) “Sorry for existing” (because someone bumped into you). Somewhere along the way, we started handing out apologies like free samples at a supermarket.
But wisdom – glorious, liberating wisdom – teaches us that not every situation deserves an “I am sorry”. Some moments call for a confident, well-placed shrug.
For example:
Not sorry for saying no. Your time and energy are precious. You are not a 24/7 convenience store for other people’s needs.
Not sorry for outgrowing people. If they still think the height of humor is prank calls and drama, you have evolved.
Not sorry for setting boundaries. Just because someone expects you to be their emotional sponge doesn’t mean you have to absorb the nonsense.
Not sorry for eating the last slice of pizza. You paid for it, you wanted it, and it’s yours. The food chain works both ways.
Not sorry for loving yourself. If your confidence makes someone uncomfortable, that’s a them problem, not a you problem.
There is a time and place for genuine apologies – like when you actually hurt someone or accidentally step on a cat’s tail. But over-apologizing for simply existing? That’s a habit we need to retire, along with uncomfortable shoes and the idea that pineapple does not belong on pizza (because it totally does)
So, the next time you feel an unnecessary “sorry” bubbling up, pause. Ask yourself: Am I truly at fault, or am I just conditioned to be polite at my own expense? If it’s the latter, take a deep breath, smile, and channel your inner unbothered legend. Because wisdom is knowing that standing in your truth doesn’t require an apology.
I am participating in the #BlogchatterA2Z, and this is my post on the theme ‘Of Epiphanies & Eyerolls‘.
This one had me nodding and chuckling in agreement! The bit about “apologizing to inanimate objects but not to people who actually deserve it” was hilariously on point—been there, done that
Your posts are incredibly empowering. They offer invaluable life lessons that truly boost confidence. I also believe that overusing the word “sorry,” however, can diminish its significance and unintentionally lower self-confidence. It’s a word best reserved for situations where it’s genuinely needed. Thanks for this powerful reminder.
Definitely some people use sorry a lot and I probably would be one of those, however, I don’t randomly use it either. There are also some who don’t say it at all. It’s right that overusing it diminishes the value but I hope that people understand that’s sometimes it is important to say it, saying it won’t make you look weak but will make you look human in fact.
You must start a podcast Mayuri because all these posts seem to be the perfect script for the same and I am telling you that it is going to be a hit for sure! Absolutely fantastic read.