Say It Without Shrinking: Replace These 7 ‘Sorry’ Phrases at Work

Ever catch yourself saying “sorry” for things that don’t actually need an apology? I used to do this all the time - “sorry for the delay” when I replied in minutes, or “sorry to bother you” before sharing an idea.

In this episode, I’m walking you through seven simple swaps that will help you stop shrinking your confidence at work and start saying what you really mean - without the guilt.

I’ll show you how to reframe the phrases you use every day so you can keep your empathy, but speak with the kind of clarity and authority that gets you heard. These are practical, easy shifts you can use in your next meeting, email, or conversation.

If you’ve ever caught yourself apologizing just for taking up space, this one’s for you.


WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

How over-apologizing quietly undermines your authority (and how to stop it)
7 simple “sorry swaps” that communicate confidence and gratitude instead of guilt
Why curiosity is actually confidence in disguise - and how to lead with it
The phrases that make you sound more credible and in control instantly
The mindset shift that helps you own your voice, your time and your perspective
When a real apology is necessary - and how to use it powerfully when it counts


TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – Welcome and why we over-apologize without realizing it

01:25 – How apologizing too much chips away at your confidence

02:45 – “Sorry for the delay” → “Thanks for your patience”

04:00 – “Sorry, can I add something?” → “I’d like to build on that”

05:20 – “Sorry if that’s a dumb question” → “Here’s something I’m curious about”

06:45 – “Sorry I missed that meeting” → “I’ll catch up on the notes and follow up”

08:10 – “Sorry, I just wanted to” → “Here’s what I need”

09:25 – “Sorry for venting” → “Thank you for listening”

10:30 – “Sorry but” → “Here’s my perspective”

12:15 – Why this isn’t about deleting “sorry,” it’s about using it intentionally

13:00 – How to balance empathy with confident communication

14:30 – How you can start replacing “sorry” today — without losing your warmth

15:00 – How to connect with me for coaching, workshops or team sessions


NEXT STEP OPTIONS:
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✔️ Visit my Website: http://www.corrielo.com/

✔️ Book me to Speak: http://www.corrielo.com/speaking

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