Wednesday

Welcome to midweek! Today, we'll chat about:

• Why apologies are important for healthy communication

• The five apology languages

• Staying hydrated this holiday season

• Skills that help build relationships

The Importance of Apologies in Healthy Communication

When feelings run high in a disagreement, conflict, or instance where someone has been hurt, they are critical to healthy communication.

Karina Schumann, PhD, associate professor of psychology and chair of the social psychology program at the University of Pittsburgh, said of apologies:

“...if they're given from the heart and if they're really genuine and sincere in the way they're offered and in their intention, even if the words aren't perfect, they can go a really long way to showing the person that you care about them, and that you want to make amends and repair the relationship to what it was before the harm was done.”

While apologies have the power to heal and make amends with those we care about and respect, that’s not all they do. Although it can be difficult when we are stuck in our feelings, accepting apologies from people (when warranted) is important to moving forward in our relationships, too, experts say.

However, how we apologize is also critical. Statements like “I’m sorry but…” can be invalidating for the other person.

The effective parts of an apology include a statement saying what you did wrong, acknowledging how it hurt the other person, taking responsibility for your actions, showing remorse for what you did, and committing to not doing what you did to the other person again.

In some instances, it may be helpful to explain your actions (with remorse) — however, it’s important not to make this an excuse.

When they come from the heart, apologies are critical for helping repair relationships and move forward.

Discover the 5 Apology Languages

Many people are familiar with the concept of the 5 love languages. But have you heard of the 5 apology languages?

The idea of the 5 apology languages is that just as there are different ways people like to give and receive love, there are ways that they will give and want to receive apologies.

These include:

• Accepting responsibility: You don’t defend your actions and simply admit that your actions hurt the other person.

• Requesting forgiveness: Ask the person if they can find it in themselves to forgive you. Know it may take time.

• Expressing regret/repenting: Demonstrate remorse for your actions, and tell the other person you are genuinely sorry.

• Making restitution: Show the other person you want to make it up to them.

• Planned change: Commit not to doing the same thing again — and mean it. Create a plan so it won’t happen again.

When considering what your apology language(s) might be, consider what makes you feel best after a miscommunication or disagreement.

Hydrate Yourself and Loved Ones This Holiday Season

This holiday season, we’re prioritizing our health and hydration with NativePath Hydrate. Packed with essential amino acids, electrolytes, and nutrients, NativePath Hydrate combats winter dryness, boosts energy, and enhances overall wellbeing—all without the excess sodium or added sugars found in other hydration products.

Whether you're staying active or just aiming to feel your best, NativePath Hydrate supports your daily hydration needs, ensuring you get exactly what your body requires without the risk of overloading. Treat yourself to better and balanced hydration, or give the thoughtful gift of wellness to friends and family.

This holiday season, enjoy up to 44% off, plus free shipping and a free gift with your first purchase—making it the ideal time to stock up for yourself (and others)!

Order today and stay refreshed this holiday season!

Thank you to NativePath for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Skills That Help Build Relationships

If you’re looking to form a stronger connection with someone, building specific skills can help us improve those relationships!

Here are some of the top skills if you’re looking to build relationships:

• Communication: As simple as it may sound, effective communication helps us communicate back and forth with the other person.

• Active listening: Staying engaged, asking questions, and showing the other person you’re paying attention is critical.

• Empathy: Putting yourself in their shoes and trying to see things from their perspective can help you understand them better.

• Teamwork: Relationships are not “me vs. them,” they’re “us.” Even when it’s not easy, being willing to work together can make a world of difference.

• Authenticity: Being yourself is one of the best ways to form bonds with others! Don’t be afraid to be yourself.

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: According to research, it takes an estimated 40-60 hours to form a casual friendship, 80-100 to become friends, and 200 to be good friends!

• 🎁 Our Holiday Self-Care Picks: Don’t forget to check out our 2024 gift guide, a collection of thoughtful, wellness-focused products that help you feel your best, inside and out.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Relationships and communication can take work, but the effort is worthwhile to form strong and healthy bonds!

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!