“You can’t talk your way out of something you behaved your way into”.

I heard this quote a few years ago at a conference.

To me, it goes with quotes like, “Actions speak louder than words” and “I can’t hear what you are saying because your actions are speaking so loudly” (or something like that!).

Things you behave your way into, require you to behave your way out of. You can’t just do something with an action and assume that a quick word will get you out of it. You need to show change, demonstrate that you are taking responsibility by changing your behaviour.

This has a lot to do with forgiveness. Yes, you need to express regret, and extend apologies; but most importantly, you need to change your behaviour and behave your way to earning trust and confidence again.

You need to walk your talk – and not just talk it.