Have you seen Good Luck to You, Leo Grande? There's a really good example of an apology in there, along with some other good stuff.
Separately, for the reflexive apologies where no one was hurt, I've really liked the suggestion to switch to "Thank you." Instead of "Sorry I'm late," "Thank you for waiting for me." Instead of "Sorry to blather on," "Thank you for listening to me." I think it can really change the dynamic.
Have you seen Good Luck to You, Leo Grande? There's a really good example of an apology in there, along with some other good stuff.
Separately, for the reflexive apologies where no one was hurt, I've really liked the suggestion to switch to "Thank you." Instead of "Sorry I'm late," "Thank you for waiting for me." Instead of "Sorry to blather on," "Thank you for listening to me." I think it can really change the dynamic.