Stop Saying "Sorry"

What makes women extraordinary--our courtesy and generosity--can also make us accountable for other people's screw ups. Who hasn't apologized to a waiter for bringing the wrong order? ("Sorry! I asked for the triple nachos, not the salad.") Studies show that ladies say "I'm sorry" more often than men because we have "a lower threshold for behavior that constitutes an apology." Meaning, guys don't think certain acts call for contrition. Factor in that women are more empathetic and strive to maintain harmony. But really, why shoulder responsibility just to make someone else feel better? No more apologies-- if you are not at fault, of course. Pass this advice on to younger women too. (Get the sly sweatshirt here, $25.)

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