In the beginning of my marriage those 3 words were very difficult for me to say. I never wanted to admit I was wrong. I was too prideful and wanted to think I knew everything. Now, did I realize that at the time? Of course not. But over the years and through lots of disagreements and arguments, I've learned how important those 3 little words are and I'd like to encourage you to start incorporating these words in your vocabulary.
Saying your wrong does not mean you are weak
Many people think that when in a disagreement, being the person who admits they were wrong (rightfully or not) becomes the 'weaker' or submissive individual. In actuality if you did say or do something that was wrong, not admitting that puts you in the position of putting blame elsewhere by thinking 'if he wouldn't have done this' or 'if my day would have went better I wouldn't have been mad already'... We can put blame on anyone or anything and this is a tactic we use to not have to face ourselves and apologize. Admitting you were wrong is an act of humility and shows a great deal of character. Your spouse, your children, your coworkers, your friends, will learn to respect you even more when they see you deserve that respect because of your actions rather than demanding it through your words.
If you are a parent, remember that we will never be 'the perfect parent'. There will be times when we disciple our children or speak to our children in a wrongful manner. Going back to your children and apologizing does not undermine your authority as the parent. We need to teach our children that we are to be respected, but that we can make mistakes. And when we do, the right thing to do is to apologize and show our children what humility looks like.
I don't remember the first time I said 'I'm sorry I was wrong' to my husband after an argument. I don't even remember what happened in my marriage for me to realize that I needed to change my attitude... but I do remember the reaction my husband had when I said it. It was utter shock, yet at the same time, I could tell we had overcome a huge obstacle in our communication. He was relieved but not in a I knew I was right way, but that we had just gotten a step closer in reading each other. Once we were both able to start admitting when the other was right and apologizing for the things we had done or said to each other that was wrong, our marriage became so much more reverent.
Start saying 'I was wrong' in your conversation and ask for forgiveness. This will strengthen your relationships and build your character. And if you have little eyes watching you, what better way to teach them these characteristics then by the example of their parents.
