The Best Way to Apologize to a Friend

Sometimes an argument with a friend can happen over the most silly things. It may have seemed important at the time, but after you cool off a bit and analyze the situation, you realize your argument wasn't so important after all. All your want is your friendship back. The good news is a sincere apology can work wonders at healing an argument and getting you back into the good graces of your friend. Here's how to apologize to a friend:

1. If at all possible, apologize in person. You want to deliver your apology in the most personal way possible so your friend can see your facial expression. Avoid apologizing by phone or email if at all possible.
2. Apologize as soon as you can after the argument. Don't allow too much time for additional anger to build up between you and your friend.
3. Practice what you plan to say in your apology until you're satisfied with it. You may only get one chance to say what you have to say. Make sure your apology is well thought out and clearly stated.
4. Be willing to accept the blame. Don't deliver a partial apology which will only come off as insincere. Acknowledge your role in the misunderstanding.
5. Make eye contact when you deliver your apology. Don't look down out the ground, cross your arms or give other signs of being defensive or insincere. Let your friend know you mean it.
6. Be willing to listen to your friend after you deliver your apology. If your friend wants to discuss the issue further, listen without forming a judgment or escalating the argument further. Your friend may feel better after she voices her feelings.
7. Have a plan for after you've delivered your apology. You might want to take your friend out for a cup of coffee so you can relax and renew your friendship.
8. Remember the purpose of apologizing is not to win the argument, but to reestablish your friendship. Resist the urge to make any final excuses or justifications to support your side of the argument.
9. If your friend doesn't accept your apology right away, give her some time and space. Sometimes it takes a little time for someone to come to terms with an apology. Don't rush her. Hopefully, these tips will help you when you next need to know how to apologize to a friend. Remember, no argument is more important than friendship. Friends are truly life's greatest treasures.