Whether you’re just friends, in a relationship, or somewhere in between with a guy, there are going to be ups and downs and the occasional apology.
For most people, it’s a big deal to apologize for something, and doesn’t come easily.
It’s also difficult to know what to say back and how to respond when someone apologizes.
Are you still hurt?
Is an apology enough?
Does it feel like they’re being sincere?
You should respond in a way that lets them know how you feel about their apology; here are some ways to do that:
5 Ways How to Respond to an Apology from a Guy
1. “Thanks, I Hear You.”
It never feels good for the person apologizing to hear just an “OK”, or “alright”.
You should always do more to acknowledge their apology, as it’s probably taken some courage on their part.
So, if you’re happy they’ve apologized but don’t want to get into talking about it, say something like, “thanks, I hear you” or “thanks for letting me know”.
This gives them the validation they need, shows you appreciate their effort, and is polite.
Related – Here’s how to reply to an apology from an ex!
2. “I Appreciate You Apologizing.”
If you feel like they’re genuinely sorry and want to show your appreciation, then this is the response for you.
It’s kind and sincere, and shows that you understand the effort they’ve made to apologize.
Plus, it’s a great way to show them that your relationship is important and while it may take time to repair any damage done, you’re willing to work at it.
3. “I Accept Your Apology, Let’s Move on Now.”
A lot of the time you’ll want to move on and not dwell on what’s happened – I know that’s the case with me.
If you’re on the same page and just want to move forward, saying something like this shows you accept their apology but don’t want to talk about it anymore.
It’s a good compromise and shows that you’re willing to move on, but also don’t want to forget what’s happened.
4. “Thanks, But An Apology Isn’t Going to Make Everything Ok.”
This response is helpful if you don’t feel like they’ve done enough or are still hurt.
It acknowledges their apology but also lets them know that it’s easy to apologize or say you’re sorry, but it’s actions that speak louder than words.
There is no point in holding a grudge or being angry with them, this will only have a negative effect on your mental health and wellness.
But there is nothing wrong with telling someone it’s going to take more than an apology to make things ok between you.
5. “You Just Don’t Seem Sincere About It.”
This is another way of saying that their apology doesn’t mean much to you.
It’s important to be honest here and not just say something kind of out of obligation, especially if you can tell that they’re not really sorry.
It will help them think about their actions and how they’re coming across, as well as open up a dialogue between you both.
Related – Want to know if you should text your ex after a year of no contact? Read this!
How Do You Accept an Apology without Saying It’s Ok?
I’ve given you a few ways you can accept an apology without saying it’s OK or that you’re happy to move on and forgive someone.
It’s important to remember that just because someone apologizes for something they did to hurt you, it doesn’t mean you automatically forgive them.
Take your time and don’t be afraid to tell them if you’re still hurt or not ready to move on.
The power is in your hands, too; you can also talk about what it’s going to take for them to be forgiven and what kind of changes they need to make in the future.
Should I Always Accept an Apology from A Guy?
It’s ultimately up to you whether or not you choose to accept an apology from a guy.
If they’re genuinely sorry and have put in the effort to apologize, then yes – it’s important to try and accept an apology.
If the apology seems insincere or they aren’t showing you with their actions that they’re truly sorry, you don’t have to accept their apology.
It doesn’t have to be a big deal either, just let the guy know that you’re not ready to forgive and forget right now and see what he does to try and make things up to you.
Sources we used to verify the information in this article:
Forbes – 12 habits of genuine people
Image credits – depositphotos.com/stock-photo-husband-asking
Phil lives in England, UK, and has around 20 years experience as a professional life, career and executive coach. He started this blog to help others find and define their own self development journey. Blogging about a wide range of topics to help facilitate a better future.