Women apologize for a lot. I do it. I bet plenty of you do it, too, right? It's ingrained in us. We're taught to be sorry for everything, especially if it involves asserting ourselves or stepping up. Well, eff that. I'm tired of saying I'm sorry all the time, especially when I'm really not sorry at all. There's a time and a place to apologize for things, but if you ask me, there are also some things that successful women should never apologize for.
1 Disagreeing with Someone else
You're allowed to disagree with things, even if you're disagreeing with a colleague or your boss – and you should never apologize for that.
Frequently asked questions
2 Having and/or Voicing Your Own Opinion
Similarly, you never have to apologize for having your own opinion or for voicing it, even if your opinion is different from someone else's.
***
Opinions shape who we are and how we see the world, and successful women understand the value of expressing themselves authentically. Own your stance with confidence, as a diversity of perspectives is crucial in any dynamic environment. Remember, your voice may provide a fresh viewpoint or inspire change, and apologizing for your thoughts diminishes their impact and your influence. Embrace respectful discourse and stand firm, for your opinions are a testament to your unique experiences and wisdom.
3 Turning down a Date
You don't owe anyone your time so there's no reason to be sorry when you say no – you haven't done anything wrong.
***
Just remember, your autonomy is paramount and respecting your boundaries is a form of self-care. If being asked out doesn't align with your priorities or feelings at the moment, communicate that with confidence. It's completely valid to decline without explanation. But if you choose to provide one, keep it brief and truthful. Whether it's due to a packed schedule, a focus on personal goals, or simply a lack of interest, you're empowered to make choices that best serve you. Never feel guilt-tripped into accepting social invitations, your peace of mind is priceless.
4 Saying No to Sex
You don't owe anyone your body, either, and there's no reason to ever be sorry for telling someone you're not interested like that.
5 Having a Great Idea
Celebrate your fantastic ideas, don't apologize for them – especially if you're at work. Make sure everyone knows that you're proud of coming up with something incredible!
6 Asking Someone to Move
You do not have to apologize to someone just because you need to be wherever they are. Simply ask them politely to move and then go on about your day.
7 Getting Your Job Done like a Boss
Even if you're tasked with something unpleasant, don't feel like you have to say you're sorry – you're just doing your job and doing it well, so whoever doesn't like it can lump it.
8 Being in a Relationship
Nope, you never have to apologize for this, that's insane.
9 Being Single
Not only do you not have to apologize for this and you don't have to explain it, either.
10 Having Children
You don't have to be sorry for being a mother, for taking maternity leave, for breastfeeding or choosing not to, or for making time for your kids.
11 Choosing Not to Have Children
Anyone who even acts like you need to apologize for this is a jerk – and anyone who questions you about it needs to mind their own pretty quick.
12 Getting a Promotion
Why in the world should you ever be sorry for slaying your job?
13 Looking “too” Anything
Too fat, too thin, too tall, too short, too pretty, too distracting, too smart, too funny – whatever you are, you're just enough, so stop apologizing!
14 Feeling Upset about Something
Don't ever apologize for your emotions – they're valid and you're allowed to feel your feelings, damn it.
15 Getting Angry
Women apologize for their anger all the time, but really, there are times when we have a lot to be mad about.
16 Being on Your Period
It's natural, it's a bodily function, and like peeing, pooing, burping, or farting, it's not anything that requires an apology.
17 Having Passion about Something
You're not hysterical, you're not dramatic, and you're not over-emotional just because you're passionate about it, so don't say you're sorry.
