Right from wrong
Right from wrong
For most people, admitting you’re wrong – even about something trivial – can be uncomfortable. But even though it can make you feel uneasy, there are benefits
Ashen-faced, soaked in rain and with a big swollen cheek, my husband returned home. He’d had a tooth out and – apparently – I’d said I’d meet him afterwards at the dentist.
The penny slowly dropped. I’d said that I’d meet him after his appointment, but started chatting with a friend. And then totally forgot. But it took me a good few hours to recognise that it was my fault. Eventually I gave a shifty apology, promised I wouldn’t do it again and skulked around feeling guilty. Not my finest hour. So why can it be so hard to admit when we’re wrong? Even when it’s obvious who’s at fault. And why should we own up at all?
The upside to coming clean Owning up to a mistake isn’t easy, but it can be worth it in the long run. Admitting you’re wrong shows you’re human, it demonstrates vulnerability and helps to build trust – all of which can deepen relationships.