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Happy Monday, boo! 
 
Let's talk about the word ‘sorry’.
 
Do you find yourself using it all the time? 
 
And I’m not talking about using it when you’re in the wrong and need to make amends. I’m talking about the times you may apologizing for things that require no apology or are completely out of your control:
 
“I’m sorry to bother you...”
“I’m sorry, but this isn’t what I ordered.”
“I'm sorry I don't understand.”
“I'm sorry I have a different opinion.”
 
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Nah. Nope. No ma'am.
 
Your words create your reality.
 
And the more you unnecessarily apologize, the less confidence you subconsciously show (to yourself and others!). You are sending the message that you and your thoughts aren't good enough, which is so far from the truth.
 
As a matter of fact, the truth is…
 
You are a powerhouse of talent, knowledge, and strength. You've accomplished incredible things and bring so much value to every situation you're in. You deserve to take up space, express your thoughts, and own your opinions – unapologetically.
 
Your well-being is depending on it.
 
Wellness isn't just about eating right and exercising; it's also about how you treat yourself mentally and emotionally. Apologizing too often can be a sign that you're not valuing your own thoughts and feelings. It can also make you more stressed because you're constantly second-guessing yourself.
 
And listen, you don't need any more stress, so let's work  to make sure your inner voice aligns with your outer success.
 
AFFIRMATION
 
My voice is valuable and my opinion matters.
 
Here's what I want you to try this week…
 
The next time you catch yourself about to say ‘sorry’, pause. 
 
Ask yourself if you genuinely did something wrong. If not, replace "sorry" with an expression of gratitude and more empowering phrases like "thank you" or ‘excuse me’.
 
I'll give you some examples to get started:
  • Sorry for rescheduling → Thank you for being flexible
  • Sorry for being late → Thank you for waiting
  • Sorry for bothering you → Thank you for carving out time
  • Sorry for venting → Thank you for listening
  • Sorry for the mistake → Thank you for catching that
  • Sorry I don't get it → Could you repeat that? I just want to be clear
  • Sorry does that make sense? → I'm happy to answer any questions
  • Sorry I don't agree → I appreciate your perspective, but see it differently
  • Sorry this isn't what I ordered → Excuse me, I received the wrong order
These reframes are powerful.
 
If you want further accountability, ask a friend or coworker to interrupt you when you do it with ‘why did you say sorry?’. That'll be your cue to reframe it.
 
Remember, confidence isn't about being perfect; it's about being authentically you. Your thoughts and opinions matter, and you deserve to express them without hesitation. I believe in you, boo!

Whenever you're ready, here are 3 ways I can help you:
 
Have a great week!
 
Ariel Belgrave, CPT
Certified Fitness & Nutrition Coach
Creative Wellness Consultant
Board Member, Women's Health Mag
Under Armour Athlete
P.S. Feel free to forward this email to someone who could use the pep talk (sharing is caring!)
 
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