Two Simple Phrases!

Two simple phrases can disarm even the most adamant critic or antagonist: “Thank you” and “I’m sorry.” These expressions are often used more frequently in December, a month of reflection, belief, celebration, magic, and, for many, sadness. Both phrases express our vulnerability. “Thank you” acknowledges that someone has given you something meaningful that has impacted your life. Without it, you would be less enriched. “I’m sorry” recognizes that your actions have caused pain that affected someone else’s life and that they would have been more enriched if your actions had been different.
When spoken sincerely, these two phrases can create trust and loyalty between individuals—qualities essential for leaders and followers to achieve remarkable and sustainable results. However, we often overlook the importance of saying “thank you” and hesitate to say, “I’m sorry.” We deny the emotional connection that could be formed. Why do we do this? Does our ego interfere? Do we convince ourselves that these phrases lack depth and meaning and are unnecessary?
Imagine your family and friends, both immediate and extended, expressing gratitude towards you and you towards them for all the good shared. Also, envision your family and friends expressing sorrow for any perceived slights. What level of joy, rather than sadness, would you feel during the holidays? Trust and loyalty flourish, solidifying the emotional connection between everyone.
Furthermore, imagine if this carried over to your workplace. You’re grabbing a cup of coffee when you bump into the CEO, and she expresses gratitude for the report you prepared last week. Or, as you walk to your car at the end of the workday, the CEO stops you to express regret for his short temper directed at you during the staff meeting. Two simple phrases, “Thank you” and “I’m sorry,” can positively change your attitude and behavior, whether you deliver or receive them.
These two phrases cost you nothing but the time to say them. They enhance your character and will not diminish your stature. The impact they have when delivered with sincerity is invaluable and long-lasting. They can unite families, friends, and employees. Words matter, as do the emotional connections they can create or deny.
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah! Thank you to the Hafizis for publishing my column and to you for reading and commenting on it!
COL Paul A. Raggio (Ret), the owner of Five Star Leader Development, is a fractional CEO/COO who develops C-Suite executives, business owners, and their management teams on leadership, management principles, and best business practices. Contact him to achieve exceptional results in your company! His email address is paul@fivestarleaderdevelopment.com, and his phone number is (252) 571-7368. Visit his website at https://www.fivestarleaderdevelopment.com.