Decide on a course of action and do it. In order to fix the problem you must have a plan. Identify the best possible solution based on the past and available options and commit to carrying it out.[5]
Follow through. If you make a promise to fix the problem, do it. Being dependable is important in building trust with others and forming lasting relationships. [6]
Formulate a back-up plan. No matter how foolproof the plan is, there is a possibility it won’t fix the issue. For example, you may clean the bathroom but the person who asked you to clean it could still be upset with you.
Identify other possible solutions and write them down from most helpful to least helpful. Go down the list from top to bottom. The list might include things like: offer to clean another room, apologize profusely, ask the person how he wants you to make up for it, or offer the person something he enjoys (food, activities, etc).20
Prevent future mistakes. If you can successfully find a solution to your error, then you are beginning the process of success in the future and avoidance of mistakes.[7]
Write down what you think you did wrong. Then write down a goal of what you want to do in the future. For example, if you forgot to clean the bathroom you could identify goals such as: write down a list of tasks each day, check the list twice per day, check off the tasks once they are finished, and put reminder post-its on the fridge for top priority tasks.
Practicing Self-Care
Give yourself a break. Understand that it is okay to make mistakes. You may feel guilty but it is important to accept yourself in spite of your weaknesses.[8]
Forgive yourself and move on instead of dwelling on your issue.
